Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team and one of the greatest batsmen of all time, is not only a legend on the field but also a star off it. With his charismatic personality, impeccable style, and inspiring performance, Kohli has become a household name and model for millions of fans across the world. Kohli’s popularity and influence have also made him a highly sought-after brand ambassador for various renowned brands. According to Forbes, Kohli was the only cricketer and the only Indian on the list of the top 100 highest-paid athletes in 2020, with an estimated earnings of $26 million from endorsements alone.
So, which brands have been fortunate enough to have Kohli as their face and voice? Let’s take
a look at some of the notable brands that Kohli endorses and the impact he has on them.
Puma
Puma, the German-based sports apparel brand, signed a record-breaking deal with Kohli in 2017, worth around Rs 110 crore (US$16.42m) for eight years. This was the biggest endorsement deal by an Indian sportsperson and one of the most lucrative in the world. As part of the deal, Kohli also launched his own athleisure brand, One8, in collaboration with Puma, which offers a range of products such as shoes, clothing, accessories, and fragrances. One8 has been a huge success, generating over Rs 100 crore in revenue in the first year of its launch.
Kohli and Puma share a common vision of promoting fitness, sports, and a healthy lifestyle among the masses. Kohli is also actively involved in Puma’s social initiatives, such as the Puma India Foundation, which supports grassroots sports development in the country.
Myntra
Myntra, the leading online fashion and lifestyle platform, partnered with Kohli and his wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, as its first brand ambassadors in 20193. Myntra reportedly spent more than Rs 10 crore for the celebrity couple as a brand endorsement fee. Myntra’s association with Kohli and Sharma is aimed at enhancing its brand appeal and attracting more customers, especially the young and urban segments. The couple also features in Myntra’s “Be Extraordinary Every Day” campaign, which celebrates individuality and self-expression through fashion.
Kohli and Sharma are known for their impeccable fashion sense and style statements, making them the ideal influencers for Myntra’s diverse and trendy offerings.
MRF Tyres
MRF Tyres, the largest tyre manufacturer in India, has been associated with Kohli since 2013, when he first signed a three-year deal worth Rs 6.5 crore. The deal was renewed in 2016 for another three years, with a whopping increase of Rs 8 crore per year. This made Kohli’s deal with MRF Tyres the costliest bat sponsorship deal in cricket history.
Kohli’s bat, which bears the MRF logo, is one of the most recognizable and iconic symbols in the cricket world. Kohli’s phenomenal batting performance and consistency have also boosted MRF’s brand value and visibility, both in India and abroad.
MRF and Kohli share a common passion for excellence and innovation, as well as along-standing commitment to the game of cricket.
Other Brands
Apart from these three major brands, Kohli also endorses a host of other brands, such as Audi Tissot, Himalaya, Wrogn, Manyavar, Digit Insurance, and more. Kohli’s endorsement portfolio is estimated to be worth over Rs 200 crore per year, making him one of the most valuable and influential celebrities in India.
Kohli’s brand endorsements are not only a reflection of his popularity and success, but also of his credibility and trustworthiness. Kohli is known for being selective and authentic in choosing the brands he associates with, ensuring that they align with his values and vision.
Kohli is not just a cricketer, but a phenomenon. He is the king of cricket and brand
endorsements, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
Commentaires