BCCI Signs ₹270 Crore Gemini Sponsorship Deal Ahead of IPL 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has secured a major commercial boost ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Google’s AI platform Gemini has signed a high-value sponsorship deal, underlining the Indian Premier League’s unmatched commercial appeal and the growing involvement of artificial intelligence companies in Indian sports.

Why in News?

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has signed a ₹270 crore sponsorship agreement with Gemini for the Indian Premier League, starting from the 2026 season.

Gemini-BCCI Sponsorship Deal

The newly signed sponsorship agreement is a significant addition to IPL’s commercial portfolio.

• The deal is valued at ₹270 crore.
• It is a three-year agreement, covering multiple IPL seasons.
• The partnership reinforces the global brand value of IPL.

According to BCCI officials, the agreement reflects the league’s strong pull for global technology brands and its position as the world’s most-watched T20 cricket tournament.

Rising Role of AI Companies in Indian Cricket

The Gemini deal highlights a growing trend of artificial intelligence platforms associating with Indian cricket.

• ChatGPT, a rival AI platform, is already sponsoring the Women’s Premier League.
• AI brands view cricket as a powerful medium to reach millions of users.
• Such partnerships blend technology, fan engagement, and sports marketing.

This shift marks a new phase where digital and AI-driven companies are becoming key stakeholders in sports sponsorship.

IPL Sponsorship Landscape

The IPL continues to attract top-tier sponsors across categories.

• Tata Group remains the title sponsor of the IPL.
• Apollo Tyres replaced Dream11 as the official jersey sponsor.
• The change followed the government ban on real money gaming platforms.

Apollo Tyres secured jersey sponsorship rights for ₹579 crore, ensuring continuity in IPL branding despite regulatory changes.

IPL 2026 Season Window

The schedule for the upcoming IPL season has also been confirmed.

• IPL 2026 will be played from March 26 to May 31, 2026.
• It will feature top international and Indian cricketers.
• The league remains the most valuable T20 competition globally.

The new sponsorship deals strengthen financial stability ahead of the season.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Which AI platform has signed a ₹270 crore sponsorship deal with the BCCI ahead of IPL 2026?

A) ChatGPT
B) Gemini
C) Bard
D) DeepSeek