Apollo Tyres, an Indian multinational tyre manufacturing company, has been named the Indian cricket team’s new lead sponsor.
The agreement grants Apollo front-of-jersey branding rights for the Indian cricket team across all formats, with the sponsorship running until 2027. According to estimates, Apollo Tyres would pay the BCCI around INR 4.5 crore per match, slightly higher than Dream11’s previous arrangement of INR 4 crore. The arrangement, valued at around INR 579 crore, is among the most valuable jersey sponsorship deals in Indian cricket history. As per the pact, the association spans two and a half years concluding in March 2028.
The news comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended its contract with Dream11 in response to the government’s prohibition on betting-related applications.
Mr. Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, said: “The arrival of Apollo Tyres as our new sponsor is a testament to the hard work and consistent performance of our teams. We are excited about this being Apollo’s first major sponsorship in India cricket, which speaks volumes about the sport’s unparalleled reach and influence. This is more than a commercial agreement; it’s a partnership between two institutions that have earned the trust and respect of millions.”
Mr Rajeev Shukla, Vice-President, BCCI, said, “We are delighted to welcome Apollo Tyres as our new lead Sponsor. This is a momentous occasion, bringing together two of India’s most powerful and enduring legacies: the unwavering spirit of Indian cricket and the pioneering legacy of Apollo Tyres. The competitive nature of the bidding process highlights the strong market confidence in the BCCI and the global brand of Team India. We are confident that this partnership will be a driving force for mutual growth and success.”
Mr. Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, Treasurer, BCCI: “This partnership is a testament to the immense value and global appeal of Indian cricket. Apollo Tyres’ commitment to innovation and its forward-thinking approach perfectly aligns with our vision for the future of the game. We are confident that this collaboration will be a huge success and will help us continue to grow the sport both in India and around the world.”
Mr. Rohan Gauns Dessai, Honorary Joint Secretary, BCCI: “The BCCI’s partnership with Apollo Tyres is a reflection of the strong and consistent performance of Team India. We are excited to embark on this new journey with a partner that shares our passion for excellence. We extend our warmest welcome to Apollo Tyres and look forward to a long and fruitful association.”
Mr. Neeraj Kanwar, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Apollo Tyres Ltd said: “Cricket’s unmatched popularity in India and worldwide makes it an honour for us to become the National Team Lead Sponsor of Team India. This partnership is about national pride, strengthening consumer trust, and showcasing Apollo as a true leader in our category, while supporting Indian sport at the highest level and creating unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.”
Notably, Canva and JK Tyre were also in the running for sponsorship of Indian cricket, while Birla Opus Paints was believed to be interested but did not participate in the formal bidding process.
The agreement represents a significant reversal for the national squad, which is presently without a shirt sponsor at the ongoing Asia Cup. The Indian women’s team has also been without a sponsor for their three-match ODI series against Australia.
The new pact is regarded as one of the most valuable sponsorship agreements in recent years, highlighting Indian cricket’s economic attractiveness at a time when companies compete for awareness on a worldwide scale.
