The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a landmark partnership with Apollo Tyres as the new lead sponsor for the Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams. This marks Apollo Tyres’ debut in Indian cricket sponsorship, following a competitive bidding process resulting in a significant increase in sponsorship value. The deal spans two and a half years, ending in March 2028, with the Apollo Tyres logo to be featured on Indian team jerseys across all formats. The deal covers 121 bilateral games and 21 ICC games. The partnership succeeds Dream11, which had been the previous sponsor for two years starting in 2023.
Dream11’s three-year ₹358 crore sponsorship contract with BCCI ended abruptly recently, primarily due to the newly passed Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, banning real-money gaming, Dream11’s core business. This legislative shift compelled Dream11 to discontinue its association just before the 2025 Asia Cup. The BCCI and Dream11 parted on amicable terms without penalties, adhering to the new regulations.
About Apollo Tyres
Apollo Tyres, established in 1972 and headquartered in Gurgaon, holds a strong position in the Indian and global tyre market. The company commands about 28-29% market share in truck and bus tyres and around 20% in passenger car tyres. he 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.
Financially, Apollo posted consolidated revenues of ₹26,123 crore for FY25, reflecting a modest 3% increase from the previous year. Despite revenue growth, Apollo’s net profit declined by nearly 48% in Q4 FY25 due to margin pressures and rising costs.
Leadership Comments on Partnership and Future Vision
BCCI’s Honorary Secretary, Devajit Saikia, celebrated Apollo Tyres’ entry as a testament to the hard work of Indian cricket teams and the sport’s extensive reach and influence. Vice-President Rajeev Shukla emphasized the alignment between Indian cricket’s legacy and Apollo Tyres’ pioneering spirit, highlighting market confidence in both brands.
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.”
Treasurer Prabhtej Singh Bhatia praised Apollo’s innovation and new-age approach, aligning with BCCI’s future vision for the sport. Apollo Tyres’ Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Neeraj Kanwar, expressed pride in associating with cricket, underscoring the partnership as a symbol of national pride and a vehicle to strengthen consumer trust through a sport loved by billions worldwide.
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.”
This strategic alliance between BCCI and Apollo Tyres joins two iconic Indian institutions, promising mutual growth while elevating the global stature of Indian cricket and reinforcing Apollo’s leadership in the tyre industry.
