Virat Kohli sizzles off the pitch with Rs 110-crore Puma deal

Moneycontrol BureauVirat Kohli isn’t just topping the charts on the 22-yard strip, he’s ruling the roost on endorsements pitch as well. The Indian cricket skipper has bagged a Rs 100-crore-plus deal with sports brand Puma.

With this Rs 110-crore, eight-year endorsement contract, Kohli becomes the first Indian sportsperson to pocket a single deal north of Rs 100 crore. He also joins the likes of sprinters Usain Bolt and Asafa Powell and soccer players Thierry Henry and Oliver Giroud as a global ambassador for Puma.

The eight-year-long deal with Puma can actually last through Kohli’s remaining career as a cricketer. Kohli is 28 at present. The deal involves a fixed payment and royalty depending on Puma’s business, The Economic Times reported on Monday.

As per the deal, Kohli is likely to launch a signature line of sports lifestyle products with a special logo and brand identity. "It's a privilege to be part of a great list of athletes that Puma has. Not just today's icons like Usain Bolt but also the brand's rich history with Pele, Maradona, Thierry Henry and others," Kohli was quoted in the report.

"Both Puma and I are committed to a long-term partnership. I am impressed by the way Puma has gained popularity and market leadership in India in a short period of time," he added.