Delhi Capitals is increasingly integrating artificial intelligence into its core strategy, positioning it as a key driver of content creation, distribution and fan engagement within the evolving Indian Premier League ecosystem.
The franchise’s chief executive officer Sunil Gupta stated that its partnership with OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, extends beyond branding and reflects a broader shift towards building a digital-first, fan-centric ecosystem powered by artificial intelligence, as reported by Moneycontrol.
Gupta stated that the franchise is focused on becoming a fan-first entity by engaging audiences on platforms where they are most active, identifying ChatGPT as a highly engaged medium, as informed. He further stated that AI-generated videos and narrative-led storytelling are playing an important role in shaping a digital-first content approach, with efforts aimed at engaging and inspiring fans in relatable formats.
While artificial intelligence is often associated with cost reduction, Gupta stated that the franchise views it primarily as a tool for improving operational efficiency and enhancing creative output.
As part of its content strategy, the franchise has developed original intellectual properties such as the mini web series DC PG by Gulati, now in its second season. The series, centred around a passionate Delhi Capitals supporter running a paying guest accommodation for fans of different teams, has garnered significant traction, with some episodes recording approximately 2.9 lakh views, as reported. Gupta stated that the series offers deeper and more substantial storytelling within the IPL content landscape.
In addition, the franchise continues to produce short-form content such as Dilli Daily, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into the off-field lives of players through videos typically lasting around a minute or more.
Gupta stated that the franchise is focused on building intellectual properties that extend beyond the six-month window of the IPL and the Women’s Premier League, with the aim of sustaining fan engagement throughout the year.
He stated that until around 15 months ago, the franchise did not have a dedicated application, but has since launched DC Fan Sabha, a rewards-based programme designed to incentivise participation and deepen fan loyalty, as stated. He added that the broader objective is to remain connected with fans beyond the cricket season while expanding both content IPs and digital-first initiatives such as the DC Fan Shop.
On the commercial front, while content strategies are increasingly digital-first, sponsorship portfolios are witnessing a resurgence of traditional categories. The ban on real money gaming created a sponsorship gap at both central and franchise levels, prompting teams such as Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders to replace Dream11 with brands including Birla Estates and Hero Vida.
Gupta stated that traditional categories have filled this gap, with several deals spanning multiple years. He added that the franchise experienced strong demand for available sponsorship slots during the current season and reported a positive performance on the sponsorship front.
He further stated that sponsorship revenue is expected to grow by 15 to 20 per cent in the 2026 season, as per the Moneycontrol report.
Gupta also highlighted that modern sponsorships are evolving beyond mere visibility, with greater emphasis on partnerships that contribute meaningfully to the broader ecosystem.
With artificial intelligence now influencing both storytelling and sponsorship strategies, Delhi Capitals’ approach reflects a wider shift within the IPL, where technology is emerging as a central pillar of fan engagement and content innovation.
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