PokerStars signs Usain Bolt to help 'bring poker to the masses'
Operator adds world's fastest man to list of celebrity ambassadors
PokerStars is adding Usain Bolt to its roster of celebrity ambassadors, with the Olympic sprint champion promising to “bring poker and PokerStars to the masses”.
The eight-time Olympic gold medallist announced the deal in conversation with comedian Kevin Hart on Twitter yesterday – Hart is also part of the PokerStars’ ambassador team.
“PokerStars is a winner and I’m happy to join Kevin in helping to bring poker and PokerStars to the masses,” Bolt said in a statement later.
“It’s a challenging game that’s fun, social and competitive so I’m pleased to be able to introduce it to my fans and to people around the world,” he added.
According to PokerStars VP of corporate communications Eric Hollreiser, Bolt will represent PokerStars in marketing campaigns and live appearances geared toward introducing new audiences to the game.
“Usain Bolt is a fierce competitor who pushes his game to the limits,” Hollreiser said.
“But he’s also one of the most-liked athletes in the world. His strong global following and winning personality will help us to introduce poker in a fun, social and fast way.”
The operator has long used global sports starts to raise the profile of poker and the PokerStars brand with the likes of Portuguese football star Ronaldo and American NBA player Dwayne Wade current ambassadors.