Cricket superstar Virat Kohli is the newest celebrity team owner to join the UIM E1 World Championship, the world’s first all-electric raceboat series.
Virat and sports tech entrepreneur Adi K Mishra were Tuesday announced as principals at the helm of The Blue Rising Team. The Indian batsman joins the likes of Rafael Nadal, Tom Brady, Didier Drogba and Sergio Perez as an E1 team owner.
“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. 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!” Virat is quoted as having said in an official release.
The Blue Rising Team name not only draws attention to the urgent need to address marine conservation and the threat posed by rising sea levels around the world, but is also a celebration of the colour at the heart of Indian sports teams that proudly represent India on the global stage. As a passionate sportsman, Kohli wants The Blue Rising to raise the profile of sustainable sports and make sure our planet is protected for future generations.
“The start line for the first season of the UIM E1 World Championship is filling up fast, and our seventh team is a big one for us! Virat Kohli’s passion for sustainability, combined with Adi’s ability to drive success, will make The Blue Rising Team a force to be reckoned with on the water. I am confident they will bring positive energy, fierce competitiveness, and natural creativity to our championship. And there’s no doubt their involvement will attract millions of new fans and help us deliver an even bigger impact through sport and purpose. Welcome The Blue Rising Team! We’re excited to have you with us on this incredible journey,” said Rodi Basso, co-founder & CEO of UIM E1 World Championship.
“Our inaugural season is getting closer and I’m thrilled to announce yet another fantastic team joining us on our journey, one who has both sport and sustainability at the heart of their team. Spearheaded by cricket superstar, Virat Kohli, The Blue Rising Team says it all in their name! 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,” Alejandro Agag, co-founder & chairman of UIM E1 World Championship, noted.
