Indian cricket announced Apollo Tyres as its multimillion-dollar main sponsor on Tuesday after the fantasy sports gaming platform Dream11 withdrew following a ban on online gambling.
The men’s team traveled to the UAE for the ongoing Asia Cup without a sponsor on their shirt after Dream11 ended a deal worth $43.6 million.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not disclose the value of the new contract, but stated it exceeds the previous amount.
“The new partnership, secured after a rigorous bidding process, represents a substantial increase in sponsorship value, signifying the immense and growing commercial appeal of Indian cricket,” the BCCI said in a statement.
The deal will last until March 2028, with the Apollo Tyres logo printed on the jerseys of the Indian men’s and women’s players.
In August, the Indian parliament passed a comprehensive law banning online gambling.
Fantasy sports apps like Dream11 continue to operate, offering prizes instead of cash.
The government indicated that the rapid spread of gambling platforms had led to widespread financial distress, addiction, and even suicide.
It also mentioned links to fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing.
