Which IPL Team Has the Most Fans? A Comprehensive Look at the 10 Most Popular Franchises and 5 Superstar Players

Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has evolved into the most popular and commercially successful cricket league in the world. Every season draws massive viewership, with sold-out stadiums and passionate fan engagement. Beyond the on-field intensity, the unwavering support from fans is a key component of the league's enduring appeal.

So, which team boasts the largest fan base? Which players are the most beloved by supporters? This article offers a comprehensive analysis based on 2025 data, with a focus on social media metrics across Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube.

Which IPL Team Has the Most Fans - Top 10 IPL Teams (2025)

Fan engagement is no longer limited to stadiums or TV viewership—it now thrives on social platforms, where millions of followers track every match, meme, and milestone. Here are the top 10 IPL franchises ranked by combined social media followers in 2025:

1. Mumbai Indians (MI) – Approx. 49.09 Million Fans

• Instagram: 18.458M

• X: 8.329M

• Facebook: 15.015M

• YouTube: 731K

• Nickname: MI / The Blues

• Fanbase: MI Paltan

MI is one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, with five championships to their name. While they didn't clinch the title in 2025, their long-standing dominance and legacy of players like Rohit Sharma and Sachin Tendulkar maintain a robust fan presence, particularly on Facebook and X. Their media strategy emphasizes tradition, loyalty, and class.

2. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – Approx. 48.99 Million Fans

• Instagram: 18.974M

• X: 10.975M

• Facebook: 14.696M

• YouTube: 4.35M

• Nickname: Yellow Army

• Fanbase: Whistle Podu Army

CSK remains a cultural powerhouse in southern India. Even though they didn't make waves in the 2025 season, their loyal fanbase and strong social media presence remain unmatched. Led for over a decade by the iconic MS Dhoni, whose "Thala" legacy endures, CSK is more than a team—it's a way of life for millions.

3. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – Approx. 45.74 Million Fans

• Instagram: 21.663M

• X (Twitter): 7.52M

• Facebook: 11.149M

• YouTube: 5.41M

• Nickname: Royal Challengers / Red and Black Army

• Fanbase: RCBians

RCB finally ended their 18-year title drought by winning the IPL 2025 title on June 3 in Ahmedabad. The emotional scenes of Virat Kohli in tears after the victory became iconic. Their triumph catapulted their popularity, especially on Instagram, where they surpassed 20M followers during the season. Kohli remains not just the spiritual leader but also the driving force of the fanbase, often referred to as the "God of IPL."

4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Approx. 33.04 Million Fans

• Instagram: 7.205M

• X: 5.372M

• Facebook: 18.094M

• YouTube: 2.51M

• Nickname: Knight Riders / Purple and Gold Army

• Fanbase: Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo Fans

Owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, KKR brings a blend of entertainment and cricketing spirit. Their slogan "Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo" resonates with fans across Eastern India. Though inconsistent in performance, their creative media and entertainment tie-ins sustain their immense popularity.

5. Delhi Capitals (DC) – Approx. 18.37 Million Fans

• Instagram: 4.619M

• X: 2.625M

• Facebook: 9.337M

• YouTube: 1.79M

• Nickname: Capitals

• Fanbase: DC Toli

Representing the nation's capital, DC has leveraged its metro-city influence and youthful energy. While yet to win a title, their rebranding and marketing focus on Gen-Z engagement. The return of Rishabh Pant in 2025 revitalized their social presence, positioning them as a team for the future.

6. Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Approx. 17.86 Million Fans

• Instagram: 4.603M

• X: 3.067M

• Facebook: 9.553M

• YouTube: 648K

• Nickname: The Kings / Red-Gold Army

• Fanbase: Sher Squad

PBKS is often regarded as an underdog story, with passionate fans supporting them through thick and thin. Their fiery branding and entertaining foreign players (e.g., Liam Livingstone) help maintain steady engagement. Though their YouTube presence lags, Facebook and Instagram numbers are impressive.

7. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Approx. 16.95 Million Fans

• Instagram: 5.309M

• X: 3.363M

• Facebook: 6.854M

• YouTube: 1.43M

• Nickname: Orange Army

• Fanbase: Orange Army

The 2016 champions continue to foster strong regional loyalty, especially in Hyderabad. Their tactical, data-driven gameplay attracts a niche segment of analytical fans. Despite missing the playoffs in 2025, their branding and consistent media strategy keep engagement steady.

8. Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Approx. 15.79 Million Fans

• Instagram: 5.183M

• X: 2.979M

• Facebook: 6.03M

• YouTube: 1.6M

• Nickname: Royals / Pink-Blue Brigade

• Fanbase: Royals Family

Winners of the inaugural IPL in 2008, RR is known for talent development and its "family first" culture. Based in Jaipur, they have a sophisticated media approach focused on storytelling and authenticity. Skipper Sanju Samson remains a fan favorite and local hero.

9. Gujarat Titans (GT) – Approx. 8.61 Million Fans

• Instagram: 4.948M

• X: 629K

• Facebook: 2.035M

• YouTube: 1M

• Nickname: Titans

• Fanbase: Titans Army

Launched in 2022 and IPL champions in their debut season, GT is known for modern branding and high-tech infrastructure, including the Narendra Modi Stadium. Although relatively new, their digital-first approach and aggressive on-field tactics have gained them rapid support.

10. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Approx. 6.25 Million Fans

• Instagram: 3.633M

• X: 817K

• Facebook: 1.363M

• YouTube: 441K

• Nickname: Super Giants

• Fanbase: LSG Brigade

As a recent entrant to the IPL, LSG is quickly establishing its identity through stylish branding and charismatic players like KL Rahul. With a strong visual identity and active social content, the franchise is expected to grow exponentially in the coming seasons.

Top 5 Most Popular IPL Players (2025)

1. Virat Kohli

With over 270 million social media followers, Virat Kohli is not only the face of RCB but arguably the most influential cricketer globally. His emotional leadership and elite performances elevate every match.

2. MS Dhoni

Though retired, "Thala" remains an immortal figure in IPL and CSK lore. His legacy continues to influence team culture and fan devotion.

3. Rohit Sharma

Five-time IPL-winning captain and a former Indian national team leader, Rohit remains one of the most respected names in cricket. His popularity is especially strong in northern and western India.

4. KL Rahul

Stylish, composed, and a strong presence on and off the field. Rahul has carved a niche, especially among younger fans and female audiences, as the face of LSG.

5. Shubman Gill

Seen as a future captain, Gill's breakout performance in the 2024 season earned him the Orange Cap. His clean technique and maturity resonate with new-generation fans.

Summary: Who Reigns Supreme?

• Most Popular Team (2025): RCB
  Their long-awaited championship win and Kohli's charisma propelled them to the top of the fan-following charts.

• Most Popular Player (2025): Virat Kohli
  Unmatched in global appeal, branding power, and social media reach.

Also Check:

Who is the worst captain in IPL history

IPL Team Owners Name List 2025

FAQs

Q: Who is the No. 1 IPL team?
A: Based on title wins, Mumbai Indians leads with five trophies. However, in terms of fan base and 2025 social engagement, RCB takes the crown.

Q: Who is the most-followed IPL player?
A: Virat Kohli, with over 270 million followers across platforms, is the most-followed and admired cricketer in the IPL.

Q: Which IPL team is the most successful?
A: In terms of trophies, both MI and CSK share the top spot with 5 titles each. Operationally and commercially, MI continues to lead in sustainability and influence.