The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Tuesday announced a landmark partnership with Apollo Tyres, a leader in the global tyre industry, as the new lead Sponsor of Team India.
The agreement spans two and a half years concluding in March 2028. Under the terms of the deal, the Apollo Tyres logo will be featured on the jerseys of the Indian men’s and women’s national teams across all formats. This partnership succeeds the previous sponsorship held by Dream11.
This marks Apollo Tyres’ first-ever foray into India cricket, a strategic move to align with a sport that resonates deeply with the nation.
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.
While financial terms were not disclosed in the official announcement, media reports put the value of the three-year deal at ₹579 crore, higher than the ₹358 crore agreement with Dream 11 for the same duration. The agreement with the tyre major covers 121 bilateral games and 21 ICC games.
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.”
For Apollo Tyres, the sponsorship is a powerful platform to connect with a diverse and passionate audience. The company, known for its commitment to performance and safety, sees a natural synergy between its brand values and the attributes of a world-class cricket team. The company markets its products under its two global brands – Apollo and Vredestein, and its products are available in over 100 countries through a vast network of branded, exclusive and multi-product outlets.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia noted: “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.”
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla added: “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.”
