Sports brand PUMA India is the official kit sponsor of the sports body Athletics Federation of India (AFI), ushering in an era of high performance for the country’s athletes. In a multi-year deal, PUMA will supply high-quality performance kits, speed suits and travel gear to every single athlete under AFI and representing India in track and field, jumps, throws, cross-country running and marathons at both domestic and international tournaments.
In the world of sports, the difference between victory and defeat can be often determined by fractions of a second. By providing products comprising apparel, footwear and accessories – PUMA will equip over 400 athletes with a competitive edge, ensuring that every milli-second is maximised to its advantage. The PUMA speed suits are designed to aid freedom of movement, aerodynamics and faster speed, supporting athletes to focus solely on their performance and increase efficiency.
PUMA is invested in 17 federations such as Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, Cuban Athletics Federation, Brazilian Athletics Confederation, Athletics New Zealand and Portuguese Athletics Federation, to name a few. PUMA’s partnership with AFI is set to intensify the sports brand’s commitment to amplify sports culture in India and serve as a catalyst for the development, growth and success of the country’s accomplished and next generation of athletes.
“We strongly believe in serving the athletes and helping them realise their full potential with our performance products. We are thrilled to partner with the Athletics Federation of India and help our athletes perform at the highest levels in various sporting disciplines across the globe. Together with the Athletics Federation of India, we will accelerate this transformative journey in Indian athletics,” Karthik Balagopalan, managing director, PUMA India, said.
Established in 1946, the AFI is the apex body for running and managing athletics in India and is affiliated with the World Athletics, Asian Athletics Association, and Indian Olympic Association. This partnership with PUMA marks their inaugural alliance with a global sports powerhouse and it is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the performance of India’s athletics teams in various disciplines at international competitions.
“Our association with PUMA represents a significant milestone for India’s athletes. With their high-quality gear, we are not only enhancing the performance of athletes but also creating a culture of excellence within the country’s sporting community. We are confident that this partnership will propel Indian athletics to new heights on the global stage,” Adille Sumariwalla, president, Athletics Federation of India, said.
With this, several international athletes such as Neeraj Chopra (javelin throw), Kishore Kumar Jena (javelin throw), Parul Chaudhary (steeplechase), Subha Venkatesan (4x 400 m relay), Murali Sreeshankar (long jump), Jyothi Yarraji (hurdle), Priyanka Goswami (race walk) and Jeswin Aldrin (long jump) will be seen sporting PUMA’s gear across sporting events.