Virat Kohli signs whopping 100-crore-plus deal with Puma to join Usain Bolt, Thierry Henry

Reinforcing his growing stature in the sports landscape in India, Virat Kohli has bagged a whopping Rs 110-crore-plus deal with premier sports brand Puma. The deal, reported to be for eight years, ensures that the Indian cricketer joins an elite list of athletes like Usain Bolt, Thierry Henry, Asafa Powell, Sergio Aguero and Cesc Fabregas who are global ambassadors for the Germany-based brand.According to a report in The Economic Times the deal involves a fixed payment and royalty depending on Puma’s business. The Delhi batsman will launch a signature line of sports lifestyle products with a special logo and brand identity to further promote the brand. “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 as saying 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. In 2013, Kohli was associated with another German sports brand Adidas, where he had signed a three-year deal worth Rs 10-crore per-annum. Sachin Tendulkar and Mahendra Singh Dhoni have also been in the Rs 100-crore club through multiple endorsement deals for a plethora of brands.