IPL Tickets Set to Get Costlier in 2026 as Government Revises GST Slabs to 40%
On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the Government of India announced major reforms to the existing Goods and Services Tax (GST) slabs, bringing significant changes for consumers across different sectors. The Finance Ministry simplified the tax structure and introduced two primary slabs—5% and 18%—for most valuable items. However, in an attempt to discourage lavish spending and harmful consumption, the government also imposed a 40% GST slab on luxury and entertainment-related products.
Among the categories facing this steep hike are tobacco products, cigarettes, and online gaming platforms. In a surprising move, the government has also categorized IPL (Indian Premier League) matches under the luxury/entertainment category, increasing the GST rate on match tickets from 28% to 40%.
IPL Tickets To Get Costlier in 2026
For cricket fans, this decision is expected to make a big dent in their wallets. With the new tax rates in effect, the price of an IPL ticket will rise significantly. For instance, a ticket priced at ₹1000 earlier was sold at ₹1180 (including 18% GST). With the 40% slab, the same ticket will now cost ₹1400.
This increase means that attending IPL matches will now be more expensive than ever before. The government has justified this move by classifying the IPL as a luxury and entertainment-based business, distinct from international matches, which will continue to attract only an 18% GST slab.
Fans To Pay More To Watch Stars in Action
The hike will directly impact fans eager to watch cricketing icons such as Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni (if he plays IPL 2026) live in stadiums. Since franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) already have higher ticket prices, their fans will now face an even steeper burden.
For example, tickets at RCB’s Chinnaswamy Stadium often range between ₹5000 to ₹40,000 depending on the stand. With the revised 40% GST, premium tickets could see an additional tax of ₹10,000–₹15,000, making it an extremely costly affair for loyal supporters.
Teams To Benefit Despite Fans’ Burden
While the move will pinch the pockets of cricket lovers, IPL franchises stand to benefit indirectly. Since ticket revenues are shared between the teams and the BCCI, the revised slabs will increase the gross collections, thereby boosting franchise incomes. However, analysts believe that the higher rates could reduce overall stadium attendance, especially among middle-class fans.
Sports economists also argue that the government’s focus is on treating IPL as a high-value entertainment product, much like concerts, casinos, or luxury shows. By contrast, India’s international matches remain under the 18% GST bracket, keeping them more affordable for the average fan.
Final Take
The GST reform is a double-edged sword for IPL. On one hand, it will help boost government revenue and discourage reckless luxury spending, but on the other, it could affect stadium attendance, especially in cities where tickets are already priced at a premium.
As IPL 2026 approaches, fans will now need to budget extra if they plan to cheer for their teams live from the stands.
