IPL’s Global Expansion: Mohit Burman Advocates Longer Season To Match NFL’s Brand Value

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Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman has emphasized the need for a 12-16 week window for the Indian Premier League to elevate its brand value to match global sporting giants like the NFL and NBA. Burman believes that extending the IPL season would allow for deeper fan engagement, stronger rivalries, and increased commercial opportunities, positioning the league as a dominant force in world sports.

IPL’s Current Standing In Global Sports

- The IPL is currently valued at approximately 16 billion dollars, making it the second most valuable sports league in terms of per-match revenue, behind the NFL
- The NFL generates 36.8 million dollars per match, while the IPL stands at 16.8 million dollars, surpassing major European football clubs in per-game earnings
- Leading investment bank Houlihan Lokey has highlighted that individual NFL franchises, such as the Dallas Cowboys, are valued at 9 billion dollars, significantly higher than top football clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United

The Case For A Longer IPL Season

- Burman argues that the existing eight-week IPL format limits storytelling, fan engagement, and commercial expansion
- A longer season would allow for better content creation, year-round fan interaction, and stronger brand positioning
- The Premier League, NBA, and NFL operate for extended periods, contributing to their higher valuations and global influence

Strategic Expansion And Global Relevance

- IPL team owners are increasingly investing in overseas leagues, including the Caribbean Premier League and SA20, to strengthen their global footprint
- Burman believes that while the IPL does not need to be taken abroad, it must focus on building international relevance through content, player engagement, and cross-league partnerships
- The league’s dominance in cricket remains undisputed, but maintaining its position requires continuous innovation and adaptation

Industry Perspective

Burman’s vision for an extended IPL season aligns with the broader trend of sports leagues expanding their operational windows to maximize revenue and audience engagement. While logistical challenges remain, the proposal reflects the growing ambition of IPL stakeholders to position the league alongside the world’s most prestigious sporting events.

Sources: Livemint, Devdiscourse.