BCCI signs Rs 270 crore sponsorship deal with Google’s Gemini ahead of IPL 2026
AI platforms deepen presence in Indian cricket as Gemini joins IPL, while ChatGPT backs WPL
PTC Web Desk: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clinched a major sponsorship agreement worth ?270 crore with Google’s AI platform Gemini ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
According to a BCCI official quoted by PTI, the agreement spans three years and underlines the IPL’s ever-expanding global reach and commercial value.
The development comes at a time when artificial intelligence platforms are increasingly associating with Indian cricket. Gemini’s competitor ChatGPT is already among the sponsors of the ongoing Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Last year, the BCCI was forced to seek a new jersey sponsor after the Indian government imposed restrictions on real-money gaming platforms, including Dream11. The vacancy was eventually filled by Apollo Tyres, which secured the jersey sponsorship rights in a deal valued at ?579 crore.
Meanwhile, the Tata Group continues to hold the title sponsorship of the IPL, the world’s most-watched T20 cricket league. The addition of Gemini to the sponsorship roster further reflects the growing interest of global technology and AI-driven companies in Indian sports.
When ChatGPT’s partnership with the WPL was announced in November, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia highlighted the broader significance of such collaborations.
“From global leaders in AI, manufacturing and beverages to trusted Indian consumer brands, this mix of partnerships will play a key role in enhancing fan engagement and supporting the growth of women’s cricket,” he had said.
The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to take place from March 26 to May 31.