Watching the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to become more expensive as the revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure takes effect from September 22, 2025. The GST Council has increased the tax on tickets for IPL matches and similar sporting events to 40%, up from 28%. This move places IPL tickets in the highest tax slab, alongside casinos, race clubs and luxury goods.
How much more fans will pay
Under the earlier regime, a ticket priced at Rs 1,000 attracted 28% GST, raising the final cost to Rs 1,280. With the new 40% rate, the same ticket will now cost Rs 1,400 — a direct increase of Rs 120 per Rs 1,000 spent.
At different ticket price points, the hike is evident:
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A Rs 500 ticket will now cost Rs 700 instead of Rs 640.
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A Rs 1,000 ticket will now cost Rs 1,400 instead of Rs 1,280.
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A Rs 2,000 ticket will now cost Rs 2,800 instead of Rs 2,560.
Distinction between IPL and other matches
The increase is uniform across IPL and other high-value sporting events, putting them in the same category as non-essential or luxury spending. However, tickets to regular cricket matches remain taxed at 18%, meaning only premium leagues like the IPL will be impacted by the 40% slab.
Part of broader GST overhaul
The GST Council framed the hike as part of a larger restructuring that targets sin goods and high-end discretionary consumption. For cricket fans, this means steeper prices per ticket, with the final cost rising further once stadium fees and online booking charges are added.
