JioStar made a big announcement on Friday, May 08, revealing that IPL 2026 is shaping up to be the largest edition in the tournament's history. This highlights its incredible scale and the way it’s engaging a diverse audience across various platforms. Kicking off with a record-breaking start, this season is already setting new standards, with a combined reach across digital and linear television soaring past an impressive 1.06 billion viewers, which is a 7% increase from last season. 

The surge in viewership is matched by significant growth at the match level, with the average match reach now at 277 million, reflecting a 6% rise compared to the previous season. This ongoing momentum showcases the IPL's lasting appeal, as fans from all over the country tune in through more than 20 feeds and in 12 different languages. 

One of the standout trends this season is the explosive growth of Connected TV (CTV), which has become the fastest-growing platform, boasting a 26% increase in reach and a 20% rise in consumption year-on-year. Impressively, Game 45 alone matched last year’s total CTV reach, highlighting the shift towards large-screen digital viewing.

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To enhance the experience, JioStar has introduced the “Champions Wali Feed,” featuring cricket legends and top analysts like Ravichandran Ashwin, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Virender Sehwag, and Irfan Pathan. They provide fans with deeper insights, untold stories, and expert analysis alongside the live action. 

IPL 2026 continues to lead in viewership across both television and digital platforms, with TV reach already on par with last season and expected to exceed 500 million viewers in India. JioStar’s coverage through JioHotstar and Star Sports has significantly boosted fan engagement and accessibility.

The tournament has also seen strong participation from advertisers, with 125 new brands joining compared to last year. With exciting matches, rising stars, and intense playoff battles, IPL 2026 is on track to become the biggest and most successful season in the league's history.