Increased Ticket Prices for IPL Following GST Changes

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to see a significant increase in ticket prices due to the government's new Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure. Effective from September 22, the GST on entertainment services, including IPL tickets, will rise to 40%, impacting fans' costs to watch their favorite cricket stars. Previously, the tax was 28%, but now fans will pay substantially more for both general and premium tickets. This change also affects other sporting leagues, categorizing them as high-end entertainment. However, recognized international sporting events may continue to attract a lower GST rate. Read on to discover how these changes will affect your IPL experience.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 4, 2025, 16:19 IST

New GST Rates Impact IPL Ticket Costs

Fans looking to attend Indian Premier League (IPL) matches will face higher ticket prices due to the recent implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) by the Indian government. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the changes during the 56th GST Council meeting, which will take effect on September 22.

The government has revised the GST structure, eliminating the 12% and 28% tax slabs, leaving only 5% and 18%. However, luxury items and certain 'sin goods' such as high-end vehicles and tobacco will now incur a 40% GST.

Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharaman chairs the 56th meeting of the GST Council, in New Delhi, today. The participants included Union Minister for State for Finance Shri @mppchaudhary, Chief Ministers of Delhi, Goa, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir…

Entertainment services, including IPL matches, concerts, and other major events, will now be subjected to a 40% GST on ticket sales, significantly increasing costs for attendees.

Higher Costs for Fans to Watch IPL Stars

With the new GST structure set to begin on September 22, fans will need to pay much more to see cricket stars like Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Sharma in action during the IPL.

Previously, the GST on a single IPL ticket was 28%, but under the new regulations, it will rise to 40%. For instance, a general admission ticket priced at INR 500 will now cost INR 700 after tax. Similarly, premium tickets that were INR 5000 will now be priced at INR 7000, reflecting the increased tax burden.

Impact on Other Sporting Events

The 40% GST will not only affect IPL tickets but also other leagues such as the Pro Kabaddi League and the Indian Super League, categorizing them as high-end entertainment and subjecting them to the same tax rate.

While IPL and similar leagues will see a 40% GST, recognized sporting events like those organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will likely remain at an 18% GST rate. This includes the upcoming Women's ODI World Cup 2025, which is officially sanctioned by the ICC.

International tournaments and bilateral series across various sports, including hockey and football, are expected to maintain the 18% GST as they are recognized by governing bodies.