Dream11 Nears End of India Cricket Sponsorship After New Gaming Law

Following the enactment of India's Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill in 2025, which bans real-money gaming platforms and their advertising, fantasy sports company Dream11 has decided to exit its jersey sponsorship deal with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Dream11, which signed a three-year ₹358 crore deal in 2023, can no longer legally promote its brand on the Indian cricket team's jerseys, leading to discussions about ending the partnership ahead of the Asia Cup starting in September 2025. The BCCI has stated it will comply fully with the law and is expected to invite new bids for the team's jersey sponsorship, with the possibility that India may play the upcoming Asia Cup without a lead sponsor if a replacement is not found in time. Dream11 has stopped all paid contests and announced it will transition to free-to-play games, focusing on its broader portfolio including FanCode and other ventures. This development marks a significant shift for both the company and Indian cricket, as Dream11 was a major sponsor with deep ties to the sport. The new law also imposes penalties of up to three years imprisonment and fines for violations, underscoring the government's strict stance on real-money online gaming.