India’s biggest cricket festival — the Indian Premier League (IPL) — has hit a rare low. Once hailed as the “gold mine” of T20 cricket, the IPL brand value has dropped by 8% this year, falling from ₹82,700 crore to ₹76,100 crore, according to a report by D&P Advisory.
This marks the second consecutive year of decline, as the league’s ecosystem has now shrunk by a total of ₹16,400 crore since 2023.
Why Has IPL’s Value Dropped?
Two major reasons have been cited behind this unexpected fall:
- Broadcast Merger Impact – The merger of Disney Star and Viacom18 in 2024 reduced competition in the broadcasting market, leading to lower media rights valuations and sponsorship impact.
- Ban on Real-Money Gaming Apps – Several fantasy and online gaming companies that served as major IPL sponsors faced government restrictions this year, directly affecting revenue inflows.
Two-Year Decline: A First in IPL History
In 2023, IPL’s valuation stood at ₹92,500 crore, making it one of the most valuable sports leagues globally. However, by 2025, it had fallen to ₹76,100 crore, signaling that even the world’s richest cricket league isn’t immune to off-field business challenges.
Cricket’s Mega Brand Still Shines Bright
Despite the decline, IPL remains a global sporting powerhouse. For fans, it continues to be more than just a tournament — it’s a two-month cricket festival blending sport, glamour, and business. But experts believe that for IPL to maintain its dominance, stability in broadcasting and sponsorship markets will be key.This marks the second consecutive year of decline, as the league’s ecosystem has now shrunk by a total of ₹16,400 crore since 2023.
Why Has IPL’s Value Dropped?
Two major reasons have been cited behind this unexpected fall:
- Broadcast Merger Impact – The merger of Disney Star and Viacom18 in 2024 reduced competition in the broadcasting market, leading to lower media rights valuations and sponsorship impact.
- Ban on Real-Money Gaming Apps – Several fantasy and online gaming companies that served as major IPL sponsors faced government restrictions this year, directly affecting revenue inflows.
Two-Year Decline: A First in IPL History
In 2023, IPL’s valuation stood at ₹92,500 crore, making it one of the most valuable sports leagues globally. However, by 2025, it had fallen to ₹76,100 crore, signaling that even the world’s richest cricket league isn’t immune to off-field business challenges.
Despite the decline, IPL remains a global sporting powerhouse. For fans, it continues to be more than just a tournament — it’s a two-month cricket festival blending sport, glamour, and business. But experts believe that for IPL to maintain its dominance, stability in broadcasting and sponsorship markets will be key.
