Indian Premier League chairman Rajeev Shukla on Friday sought to downplay PepsiCo’s notice to the BCCI saying it was considering pulling out of the IPL on the grounds that the spot-fixing scandal had brought the game into “disrepute”.
“We are in constant consultation with Pepsi officials. Talks are going on in a very cordial relationship. They have been long-standing partners. We are addressing their concerns and they are considering ours,” said Shukla.
The BCCI and PepsiCo issued a joint statement on Friday, saying both parties were trying to reach a resolution.
“BCCI and PepsiCo have had a long-standing cordial relationship. PepsiCo has raised certain concerns with the BCCI. BCCI has assured that steps will be taken to address the concerns and will work necessary solutions in the interests of the league as well as PepsiCo.
“As part of the process, BCCI and PepsiCo have been in amicable discussions and further update will be shared in due course,” the joint statement said.
The global beverage giant had in 2012 bought the title sponsorship rights for the IPL for the period 2013-17 for Rs 396.8 crore, which was almost double the original title sponsorship deal done in 2008.
In 2008, DLF had paid Rs 200 crore for the title rights till 2012. But in 2012, DLF chose not to renew its contract, obliging the BCCI to issue a new tender.
