Dream11 Parts Ways With Team India: BCCI Hunts New Jersey Sponsor Before Asia Cup 2025
India’s fantasy sports giant Dream11 has ended its jersey sponsorship of the Indian men’s cricket team, leaving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to find a new front-of-shirt sponsor just days before the Asia Cup 2025. The exit follows the passage of a new online gaming law that bans real-money games and their advertising in India.
Key Highlights
- Dream11 withdraws from the ₹358-crore (US$44m) 2023–2026 jersey sponsorship deal.
- New online gaming law reportedly bans advertising/sponsorships for real-money gaming.
- BCCI to invite fresh bids; urgent jersey updates needed before Asia Cup 2025.
- Reports suggest a clause may limit penalties on early termination.
What Changed?
Reports indicate that the updated gaming regulations prohibit promotion of real-money gaming, placing high-visibility sports sponsorships under legal risk. Dream11 has therefore stepped away from the agreement to remain compliant.
Impact on BCCI and Team India
- Jersey logistics: Quick reprints and compliance checks are needed for the Asia Cup squad kits.
- Commercial plan: BCCI will launch a fresh tender to onboard a new principal sponsor.
- Financial exposure: A reported contract clause could prevent punitive damages against Dream11 despite an early exit.
Timeline
- 2023: Dream11 signs as lead jersey sponsor for 2023–2026.
- Aug 2025: New online gaming law passes; Dream11 informs BCCI it cannot continue.
- Aug 25, 2025: Termination widely reported; BCCI set to invite fresh bids.
FAQs
Why did Dream11 end the sponsorship?
Due to the new online gaming law that bans advertising and sponsorships for real-money gaming products.
How much was the contract worth?
Approximately ₹358 crore for the 2023–2026 cycle.
Can BCCI penalise Dream11?
Reports suggest a contract clause may prevent penalties despite early termination.
Who might replace Dream11?
BCCI will invite fresh bids; expect interest from major consumer brands across tech, finance, telecom, e-commerce, and FMCG.
