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IPL 2026 breaks records as reach crosses 1.1 billion amid thrilling playoff race

Yahoo Sports

IPL 2026 has shattered all previous records, attracting over 1. 1 billion viewers across TV and digital platforms. The league's thrilling unpredictability has fueled unprecedented fan engagement, with digital platforms showing significant growth.

Regional language viewership has surged by an impressive 42%, highlighting the tournament's expanding appeal beyond major metros.

NEW DELHI: IPL 2026 has recorded its highest-ever audience reach, with the ongoing season crossing a combined 1. 1 billion viewers across television and digital platforms as the playoff race heads into a dramatic final stretch. According to figures released by JioStar, the tournament’s continued unpredictability has helped sustain fan engagement through the league phase, driving strong growth across both linear television and digital.

The combined reach of 1. 1 billion makes IPL 2026 the most widely consumed season in the tournament’s history so far. Linear TV remains strong and is on track to touch the 500-million mark, while digital has emerged as the major growth driver.

Digital reach has increased by 15 per cent compared to last season, with watch-time also climbing by seven per cent. Connected TV has seen a sharp rise as well, with reach growing 25 per cent and watch-time increasing by 20 per cent. One of the standout trends has been the growth in regional viewership.