BCCI Terminates Sponsorship Deal with Dream11 Due to New Online Gaming Legislation
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the termination of its sponsorship deal with Dream11, the world’s largest real money gaming company. The partnership, worth a staggering INR 358 crores, has come to an end following the passage of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.
According to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, “BCCI and Dream11 are discontinuing their relationship after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, was passed. BCCI will ensure not to indulge with any such organizations ahead in the future.” The decision to end the deal was deemed necessary to comply with the new legislation that makes the advertisement of fantasy gaming illegal.
Implications for Both BCCI and Dream11
The termination of the sponsorship deal was a mutual decision, as both parties recognized the importance of adhering to the new government law. For Dream Sports, the parent company of Dream11, this development means the end of a three-year jersey sponsorship deal signed with BCCI in 2023.
With the Asia Cup looming on the horizon, the Indian cricket team now faces the prospect of competing without a jersey sponsor unless BCCI secures a new partnership within the next fortnight. The Asia Cup is set to kick off in the UAE on September 9, adding urgency to the search for a new sponsor.
Key Provisions of the Online Gaming Legislation
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, introduces several significant changes to the online gaming landscape in India. Some of the key provisions of the bill include:
- Complete ban on offering, operating, or facilitating online money games
- Prohibition on advertising and promotion of money games across all media platforms
- Restriction on financial transactions related to online money games, with banks and payment systems prohibited from processing such payments
- Authority to block access to unlawful gaming platforms under the Information Technology Act, 2000
Since the bill was enacted, banks have reportedly taken steps to block transactions with gaming companies, further enforcing the new regulations.
Looking Ahead
As the BCCI seeks a new jersey sponsor for the upcoming Asia Cup, the cricketing world waits in anticipation to see which company will step in to fill the void left by Dream11. The termination of the partnership signals a shift in the online gaming industry in India, with companies and sporting bodies alike adapting to the changing regulatory landscape.
Stay tuned for updates as BCCI navigates the post-Dream11 era and explores new sponsorship opportunities in the evolving online gaming environment.
Impact of BCCI’s Decision on the Online Gaming Industry
The termination of the sponsorship deal between BCCI and Dream11 has sent ripples through the online gaming industry in India. With the new legislation cracking down on online money games, companies in the fantasy sports and gaming sector are reevaluating their strategies and partnerships. The move by BCCI to comply with the law highlights the need for organizations to align with regulatory frameworks to avoid legal repercussions.
Players in the online gaming industry are now faced with the challenge of navigating a shifting landscape where advertising and operating money games are subject to stringent regulations. The decision by BCCI serves as a wake-up call for companies to prioritize compliance and transparency in their operations to maintain credibility and longevity in the market.
Opportunities for New Sponsors in Cricket
As BCCI embarks on the search for a new jersey sponsor for the Indian cricket team, there is a window of opportunity for companies looking to establish their presence in the sport. The Asia Cup presents a high-profile platform for brands to gain visibility and reach a wide audience through association with one of the most popular teams in international cricket.
With the spotlight on the search for a new sponsor, companies can leverage this opportunity to align their brand with the values and passion of cricket fans in India and beyond. A strategic partnership with BCCI can not only enhance brand recognition but also create a lasting connection with a diverse and dedicated fanbase.
Adapting to Regulatory Changes in Online Gaming
As the online gaming landscape in India undergoes regulatory changes, companies in the industry must reconsider their business models and marketing strategies to comply with the law. The ban on advertising and promotion of money games necessitates a shift towards more creative and compliant ways of engaging users and attracting customers.
Moreover, the restrictions on financial transactions related to online money games require companies to explore alternative payment solutions and ensure a seamless user experience while adhering to the new regulations. Adapting to these changes will be crucial for the sustainability and growth of online gaming companies in India.
Conclusion
The termination of the sponsorship deal between BCCI and Dream11 underscores the evolving regulatory landscape of the online gaming industry in India. With companies and sporting bodies facing the impact of new legislation, the need for compliance and adaptation has never been more critical. As BCCI seeks a new jersey sponsor for the upcoming Asia Cup, the industry watches closely to see how brands navigate the changing environment and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the world of cricket.
In the midst of these transitions, companies in the online gaming sector must prioritize transparency, compliance, and innovation to thrive in a market shaped by regulatory developments and evolving consumer expectations.
