IPL 2025: KKR vs RCB Revenue Comparison – Which franchise earns more?

1. Introduction

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), at the renowned Eden Gardens, on Saturday, March 22. Interestingly, this will be the second time the two sides play each other in the tournament opener of the marquee 20-over league. IPL 2025 is all set to commence with a bang.

Beyond their on-field prowess, which both sides have demonstrated over past seasons, they have also evolved into high-value brands off the field. Both franchises have secured colossal revenue from corporate backing, television rights, matchday revenue, and global investments. They had a huge brand valuation in IPL 2024, making them the most valuable franchises in the league.

2. Detailed Analysis of Revenue Streams

i) Broadcast Revenue

KKR and RCB continue to reap significant financial benefits from lucrative broadcasting deals. In terms of broadcast revenue, KKR has earned INR 246 crore, while RCB has earned INR 262 crore as of 2024. The IPL commands a massive viewership, with media rights deals directly influencing franchise earnings. The revenue share is distributed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the respective IPL teams.

ii) Sponsorship & Advertising Deals

Franchises like KKR and RCB earn approximately between INR 100 crore and INR 150 crore annually from sponsorship deals, according to estimates.

SIX5SIX, one of India's leading sportswear brands, has announced its partnership with KKR. As for RCB, London-based technology brand Nothing has partnered with RCB as an associate sponsor for IPL 2025.

iii) Merchandise Sales

A passionate fanbase and strategic branding have contributed to KKR’s incredible growth. The launch of groundbreaking initiatives like the Knight Club app has further boosted merchandise sales. For the unversed, the app provides an easy platform for fans to purchase official franchise apparel.

RCB's fan culture has always been among the most vibrant and fervent. The franchise has fully capitalized on its iconic red and gold branding. A wide range of products, beyond official jerseys, is rolled out every year, catering directly to its vast fanbase.

iv) Overall Franchise Valuation

Considering various factors—such as ticket sales, team success, and marketability—the overall valuation of KKR and RCB as of 2024 stands at INR 9,020 crore and INR 9,675 crore (approximately), respectively.

Also Check- IPL 2025: RCB's best XI that can defeat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

3. Data Presentation and Analysis (as of 2024)

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and industry estimates. CricTracker does not claim responsibility for the accuracy of financial figures or revenue details. Readers should verify information from official sources before making any conclusions.