From DLF, Pepsi, Dream11 To Tata - Explore IPL Title Sponsor History

image-lrlm34ybTata will continue as the IPL title sponsor till 2028.(x.com)

In a significant development just two months ahead of the eagerly awaited Indian Premier League (IPL), the Tata Sons group has once again emerged victorious in the bidding race, retaining its status as the title sponsor for the next five years. The mega tournament, which first captivated cricket fans in 2008, has consistently drawn global attention and hefty bids for its title sponsorship.

Since its inception, the IPL has witnessed a carousel of title sponsors, ranging from DLF, Pepsi, and Vivo, to the current titleholder, Tata. The latest bidding showdown saw the Aditya Birla group leading the charge with a formidable bid of 2500 crores. However, the Tata group swiftly matched this impressive offer, securing their continued association with the prestigious tournament.

Having initially taken on the role of title sponsor in 2022, the Tata Group has now solidified its position for the upcoming 2024-2028 cycle. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regularly releases tenders, inviting bids from various groups vying for the coveted sponsorship rights. In this latest round, Tata's determination and financial commitment prevailed, ensuring their continued partnership with the IPL.


At OneCricket, we understand the significance of the IPL title sponsorship and its evolution over the years. As we eagerly await the commencement of the 2024-2028 cycle, let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the various entities that have adorned the coveted title sponsorship.


DLF(2008-2012)

DLF, India's largest real estate firm, secured the inaugural title sponsorship of the Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2008 to 2012 with a ₹40 crore bid. The four-year deal marked DLF as the first-ever title sponsor of the IPL. However, as the agreement concluded in 2012, DLF opted not to renew. Their noteworthy contribution played a pivotal role in shaping the early years of the IPL.


Pepsi(2013-2015)

Pepsi, a global giant, stepped in as the second brand to sponsor the Indian Premier League (IPL), securing a lucrative five-year deal worth INR 396 crores. However, amidst a looming corruption scandal in 2015, Pepsi, sensing potential negative publicity, withdrew its sponsorship two years before the crisis unfolded. Taking over in 2013, Pepsi served as the title sponsor for three years, bidding Rs. 79.2 crore annually, until the deal's termination following the suspension of CSK and RR.


VIVO (2016-2017)

VIVO, the Chinese mobile manufacturer, stepped in as the title sponsor for the 2016 IPL season, succeeding PepsiCo. Initially signing a two-year deal for INR 100 crores annually, VIVO renewed its contract and retained the title rights for a staggering INR 440 crores after the initial period. However, the partnership faced interruptions, with VIVO cancelling the deal during the India-China military standoff. Although VIVO returned for the 2021 season, they exited again after one year.


VIVO (2018-19)

VIVO boldly extended its IPL sponsorship, bidding INR 2,199 crores for a five-year deal after completing a successful two-year contract. Despite initially committing a staggering INR 440 crores annually, VIVO became the second company to prematurely terminate its agreement. The decision came amidst escalating tensions between India and China, leading to widespread anti-China sentiments. Consequently, VIVO opted out of the 2020 IPL season, marking a significant development in the league's sponsorship landscape.


Dream11 (2020)

In 2020, Dream11 stepped in as the fourth brand to secure IPL title sponsorship rights after VIVO withdrew a month before the tournament, posing challenges for the board. Despite offering half of VIVO's expected payment, the BCCI was content to bring in Dream11, the fantasy sports platform, for a one-year deal worth INR 222 crores. However, their stint was short-lived, as Vivo returned in the following season, concluding Dream11's title sponsorship after 2020.


Tata(2022 - 2023)

As India's largest and most dynamic conglomerate, the TATA Group ranks among the world's top 10 business groups. With diverse operations in automobiles, hotels, IT services, engineering, telecommunications, and financial services, TATA secured the IPL title sponsorship rights for approximately Rs 355 crore annually. Initially stepping in after Vivo's departure, TATA retained the title sponsorship for two years (2022-2023) and has now clinched the rights again, this time for an impressive sum of Rs 500 crore.