NEW DELHI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced Olympic legend
Usain Bolt
as a brand ambassador for the upcoming
ICC
Men’s
T20 World Cup
, which will be played from June 1 to 29 in the West Indies and USA.
Bolt's inclusion adds a touch of global prestige, blending the worlds of cricket and athletics. His unparalleled sporting legacy and charismatic persona are set to amplify the tournament's reach, attracting a diverse audience and igniting fervour among fans worldwide.
The announcement comes a few weeks ahead of the start of the biggest cricket carnival spectacle ever that will inspire a new generation of fans. Bolt’s global appeal alongside his out of this world athletic achievements and ability to transcend boundaries makes him a perfect fit for the biggest T20 World Cup ever.
Bolt created history at the 2016 Rio Olympics when he achieved the ‘Triple-Triple’, three gold medals at three consecutive Olympic Games. His journey to worldwide stardom started at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing where he won the 100m, 200m and 4x100m, all in world record times.
As an ambassador, Bolt will play a key role in promoting the event, starting with a cameo appearance in next week’s release of the event’s official anthem music video alongside iconic artists Sean Paul and Kes.
The eight-time Olympic Gold Medallist will also attend T20 World Cup matches in the West Indies and be part of fan engagement events promoting the sport within the United States.
Bolt expressed his excitement about his new role, stating coming from the Caribbean, the sport has always held a special place in his heart.
"I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Coming from the Caribbean where cricket is a part of life, the sport has always held a special place in my heart, and I look forward to attending West Indies matches at the World Cup and making a contribution to the growth of cricket globally," Bolt was quoted as saying in an ICC media release.
“While I will of course be supporting West Indies at the World Cup, getting the sport into the US is big for cricket. It’s the biggest sports market in the world and the energy that we will bring for the T20 World Cup is a huge opportunity leading towards cricket’s inclusion in the
LA Olympics
in 2028."
"Usain Bolt is a global icon, we are thrilled to have him on board as an Ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 to engage with a new generation of fans. His passion for cricket is well known, making him the perfect fit for this role. Alongside his world record breaking achievements and energetic personality, he will add another exciting element to the World Cup,"
Geoff Allardice
, ICC CEO, said.
English (US) ·