EaseMyTrip pulls out of WCL Semi-Final: Is it justified?
EaseMyTrip, one of India’s top travel booking platforms, has pulled out of sponsoring the India vs Pakistan semi-final match. This match is one of the most awaited games in the 2025 World Championship of Legends (WCL), so the announcement quickly sparked strong reactions.
The company’s co-founder and CEO, Nishant Pitti, announced on X (formerly Twitter) on 30 July 2025. He explained that the company would not support Pakistan because of its alleged links to recent attacks. His post said:
‘…the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game, Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand. @EaseMyTrip, we stand with India. We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism’.
The post drew attention in both India and Pakistan. Most Indian users praised the move, but some criticised it. Was EaseMyTrip right to take this stand, or should it have kept business and politics separate? Here’s what you need to know.
The conflict: Terror attack from April to May 2025
Pitti’s post refers to the India–Pakistan conflict that began in late April 2025. The cause is still unclear, but many reports blame a group based in Pakistan for a major attack in India. The situation led to strained diplomatic ties, angry public reaction, and higher military alert. Many Indians still feel the emotional and security effects of that period.
What is EaseMyTrip and its relevance to WCL 2025?
EaseMyTrip is one of the main sponsors of the WCL 2025. Usually, sponsorship covers the entire tournament. That’s why many people found it odd that the company withdrew only from one match. While this step may not affect the WCL’s finances much, it sends a strong political message. It could also push other sponsors to take similar actions.
Turning sports into a platform for political protests can be risky. Some users praised Pitti for standing up for what he believes in. Others worry the move could damage the image of cricket as a sport that brings countries together.
What is the public sentiment about the decision?
Social media reactions were split. Many users called the decision brave and patriotic. But others said it was fake nationalism. They pointed out that since EaseMyTrip still sponsors the overall event, it still indirectly supports matches involving Pakistan.
Is CEO Nishant Pitti justified in his decision?
Pitti’s choice reflects the strong emotions many Indians feel after the April 2025 attack. For them, his message is clear: national security comes first. But critics say the move is more symbolic than real, especially if the company still profits from the tournament.
From a professional angle, some argue that backing out after agreeing to sponsor the event shows poor consistency. Still, others believe staying silent would be worse. The public remains divided, and this case might change how companies deal with politics in sports going forward.
