The Rise of Virat Kohli’s Brand: Endorsements and Businesses

Virat Kohli, known for his unmatched cricketing skills and fierce competitive spirit, is much more than just a sportsman. Over the years, Kohli has evolved into a global brand, extending his influence far beyond the cricket field. His astute business sense and strategic endorsements have made him one of the most recognizable faces in India and worldwide.

This article delves into the journey of Virat Kohli’s brand, focusing on his major endorsements and successful business ventures.

1. Virat Kohli: From Cricket Star to Brand Icon

Virat Kohli’s rise to fame in cricket is well documented, with his aggressive batting style and ability to lead India to numerous victories. His consistent performances and on-field achievements earned him admiration and a dedicated fan base, both in India and globally. But what sets Kohli apart from many other cricketers is his ability to leverage his fame into lucrative business ventures and endorsements.

His evolution into a brand began early in his career. Even as a young cricketer, brands recognized Kohli’s potential to attract a large, diverse audience, making him a perfect ambassador. As his cricket career soared, so did his brand value.

2. Major Endorsements: Kohli’s Association with Global Brands

Virat Kohli’s endorsement portfolio includes a range of brands across various industries. From sports gear to luxury cars, his associations speak volumes about his widespread appeal.

a. Puma

In 2017, Virat Kohli signed a record-breaking deal with Puma, becoming the first Indian athlete to sign a Rs. 100-crore endorsement deal with the global sportswear brand. This association has not only highlighted Kohli’s stature in the world of sports but also his influence in the fitness and lifestyle space. As part of the deal, Kohli has collaborated with Puma on several campaigns, inspiring youth to embrace fitness and sports.

b. MRF

Kohli’s long-standing partnership with MRF has been a major highlight of his cricketing career. The MRF logo has adorned his bat for years, symbolizing a trusted relationship between the brand and the cricketer. The association has been extended multiple times, with Kohli signing one of the highest bat endorsement deals in cricket history. MRF’s brand presence during international cricket matches has given the company global visibility, thanks to Kohli’s reach.

c. Audi

As a known car enthusiast, it’s no surprise that Virat Kohli is the face of Audi in India. His partnership with the luxury car brand has been marked by endorsements and appearances that align with his sophisticated, stylish image. This endorsement reinforces Kohli’s brand as not only an athlete but also a symbol of luxury and high performance, much like the cars he promotes.

d. Wrogn

Kohli has ventured into fashion by launching his own clothing line, Wrogn, which represents his personal style and ethos. Wrogn focuses on casual wear and has become one of the leading fashion brands in India, especially among millennials. Kohli’s deep involvement in the brand, from design inputs to marketing campaigns, shows his passion for fashion and his understanding of consumer trends.

e. Manyavar

Kohli’s endorsement deal with Manyavar, a leading ethnic wear brand in India, taps into his deep connection with Indian culture. The brand’s association with Kohli, especially through its wedding-themed advertisements, has resonated with audiences who admire Kohli not just for his cricketing achievements but also for his role as a family man. This association has further strengthened his appeal across different demographic groups.

f. Boost and Pepsi

Virat Kohli’s association with brands like Boost and Pepsi during the early years of his career played a significant role in shaping his brand identity. These partnerships, targeted at a young audience, helped Kohli establish himself as an energetic and vibrant sports star.

3. Virat Kohli as a Businessman: Ventures Beyond Endorsements

Beyond endorsements, Kohli has successfully ventured into business, leveraging his popularity and influence to build sustainable brands. His business acumen has enabled him to diversify his interests while ensuring long-term growth and success.

a. One8

In collaboration with Puma, Kohli launched One8, a line of activewear and athleisure that aligns with his personal philosophy of fitness and style. One8 has become one of the top-selling fitness brands in India, catering to a market that increasingly values health and wellness. Kohli’s direct involvement in shaping the brand’s identity and products demonstrates his commitment to building a lasting legacy in the fitness industry.

b. Chisel Gyms

Kohli’s passion for fitness extends beyond his personal regimen. He co-owns Chisel Gyms, a chain of state-of-the-art fitness centers across India. These gyms aim to provide fitness enthusiasts with top-notch facilities and training, promoting a culture of health and fitness that Kohli has long championed. Through Chisel, Kohli is actively contributing to the fitness movement in India.

c. Sports Conclave and ISL Team

Virat Kohli has also dipped his toes into the sports management and ownership sector. He co-owns the Indian Super League (ISL) football team, FC Goa, which shows his deep interest in promoting sports beyond cricket. Kohli has often spoken about his love for football, and his investment in FC Goa reflects his commitment to boosting the growth of sports in India.

4. The Impact of Virat Kohli’s Brand on Cricket and Beyond

Kohli’s business and endorsement ventures have helped establish him as a multifaceted personality who is much more than just a cricketer. His brand is built on qualities like discipline, performance, and charisma—values that resonate with his audience.

As Kohli’s cricketing career progresses, his ability to successfully juggle his on-field responsibilities with off-field business commitments has become a blueprint for modern athletes. Kohli has shown that athletes can build strong personal brands that last well beyond their playing days.

5. Conclusion: The Future of Virat Kohli’s Brand

Virat Kohli is not only a cricket legend but also a business visionary. With his strategic endorsements and entrepreneurial ventures, Kohli has created a brand that transcends cricket. His ability to connect with audiences across various platforms, from fitness to fashion, has ensured that his influence will endure, even as he moves into the later stages of his career.

As Kohli continues to build his empire, his brand will undoubtedly evolve, incorporating new ventures, partnerships, and global opportunities. Whether on the cricket field or in the business world, Virat Kohli’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of determination, hard work, and vision.