The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has signed a ₹270 crore sponsorship agreement with Google’s artificial intelligence platform Gemini ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, reflecting the rising interest of AI-led brands in India’s most valuable sporting property. The three-year deal further strengthens IPL’s position as a global marketing platform capable of attracting next-generation technology companies.

According to a BCCI official quoted by PTI, the partnership highlights the league’s sustained appeal among global brands. Gemini’s entry into IPL sponsorship also underscores a broader trend, with artificial intelligence platforms increasingly associating with cricket. Notably, Gemini’s rival ChatGPT is already among the sponsors of the ongoing Women’s Premier League (WPL), indicating how AI brands are leveraging cricket to reach mass and digitally savvy audiences.

The development follows a significant shift in IPL sponsorship dynamics last year, when the BCCI was required to appoint a new jersey sponsor after the Indian government banned real-money gaming platforms, including Dream11. Apollo Tyres stepped in as the IPL jersey sponsor with a deal valued at ₹579 crore, while the Tata Group continues as the title sponsor of the tournament.

Previously, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had spoken about the growing presence of technology and AI brands in cricket sponsorships, emphasizing their role in driving fan engagement and contributing to the sport’s evolution. He also highlighted how such partnerships can support the expansion and visibility of women’s cricket in India.

The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to run from March 26 to May 31 and is expected to attract strong interest from advertisers across categories. With Gemini joining the sponsorship roster, the league continues to reflect changing brand priorities-where technology, innovation, and digital-first platforms are increasingly central to sports marketing strategies.