Inspiring Sustainability and Competition in the UIM E1 World Championship
In a surprising turn of events, cricket sensation Virat Kohli has announced his entry into the world of electric powerboating as he launches The Blue Rising Team. This new venture will compete in the UIM E1 World Championship, the pioneering all-electric powerboating series. Alongside Virat Kohli, the team will be led by sports technology entrepreneur Adi K. Mishra, making it a powerhouse collaboration.
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Virat Kohli’s New Horizon
Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team and two-time ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2017 and 2018, has carved his name in the annals of cricket history. With an Instagram following of a staggering 260 million, his influence extends far beyond the cricketing world. However, his latest endeavor, The Blue Rising Team, is a testament to his evolving passions.
“I want to inspire people to have a competitive spirit and to raise awareness about sustainability issues, something I am becoming more and more passionate about as we build a family,” Kohli expressed. “I can’t wait to cheer for our male and female pilots racing for our team. I’m looking forward to lining up against the likes of Tom Brady, Rafa Nadal, Sergio Perez, Steve Aoki, and Didier Drogba — we’re going electric, we’re going flying over the water, and we’re going to try to win it for The Blue Rising.“
The Blue Rising: A Name with Purpose
The choice of the team’s name, The Blue Rising, holds profound significance. It aims to draw attention to marine conservation and the global threat posed by rising sea levels. Additionally, it serves as a celebration of the vibrant blue color synonymous with India’s sports teams.
Entrepreneurial Support
Virat Kohli will not be navigating this new watersport adventure alone. He will be bolstered by the support of Adi K. Mishra, the Founder and CEO of League Sports Co. Known as a sports technology holding company, League Sports Co. owns and operates sports teams, gaming businesses, and brands, including the World Bowling League.
“We are excited to partner with one of the best athletes of our generation and arguably one of the best batsmen in the history of cricket,” Mishra remarked. “It has also been a pleasure to work alongside Bunty Sajdeh, CEO of Cornerstone Sport & Entertainment, who has played a key role.”
Furthermore, this partnership has already initiated meaningful dialogues with brands that share their values, particularly those aligned with sustainability and gender inclusion, which are core tenets of the UIM E1 World Championship.
An Electrifying Inaugural Season
The UIM E1 World Championship is set to embark on its inaugural season, slated to commence in February 2024. The competition will witness up to 10 teams and 20 mixed-gender pilots racing on the water in iconic cities across the globe. Notably, the United States is set to host a race in the championship’s second season.
Rodi Basso, co-founder and CEO of the championship, expressed enthusiasm for the latest addition to the league. He believes that the passion for sustainability exhibited by Virat Kohli, combined with Adi’s acumen for driving success, will make The Blue Rising Team a formidable contender on the water.
A Growing Phenomenon
Alejandro Agag, co-founder and chairman of the UIM E1 World Championship, who is also known as the chairman of the one-seater electric series Formula E, welcomed The Blue Rising Team with open arms. He commended their commitment to purpose-driven sportsmanship, both on and off the water.
“Spearheaded by cricket superstar Virat Kohli, The Blue Rising Team says it all in their name,” Agag noted. “No doubt on the water, their sportsmanship will allow their team to thrive and guide their team to success. Off the water, their strength in championing sport with purpose is something we want to elevate and by joining forces together, especially with our diverse fan base, I believe we can inspire and educate future generations. The race is on, and I cannot wait for the first race of the UIM E1 World Championship in Jeddah next year.“
As The Blue Rising Team sets sail into uncharted waters, it promises to be an exciting journey, not just for Virat Kohli’s fans but for all those who value sustainability and the spirit of competition. With the UIM E1 World Championship as their stage, they aim to make waves and inspire change.
