Virat Kohli Invests in Agilitas, ends 300 CR Puma Partnership to Take One8 Global
In a bold business move, cricket icon Virat Kohli has rejected a renewed sponsorship deal with Puma to invest in Indian sportswear startup Agilitas, aligning himself as both an investor and co-creator. The financial details remain undisclosed.
The partnership is geared towards elevating Kohli’s popular lifestyle brand, One8, taking it beyond India and into major international markets, including the US and the UK. As part of the deal, Agilitas plans to launch standalone One8 retail stores across India and abroad.
Agilitas was founded in 2023 by former Puma India executives and has already made waves in the industry. The startup has raised INR 537 crore in funding to date and recently acquired Mochiko Group Shoes, a prominent sports footwear manufacturer. Additionally, Agilitas secured a 40-year licensing deal to sell Italian sports brand Lotto in select markets, solidifying its growing influence.
Speaking about the partnership, sources close to the matter describe Kohli’s involvement as more than financial. He will play a creative role in shaping product lines and expanding One8’s identity in the premium athleisure category.
Agilitas CEO Abhishek Ganguly, who previously led Puma India, noted that the partnership aligns with the company’s vision of creating a robust homegrown sportswear ecosystem with international relevance.
Kohli continues to make strides off the field; his bet on Agilitas could mark a defining chapter in India’s journey to build globally recognised sportswear brands.
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