VIRAT KOHLI: A SOCIAL MEDIA PHENOMENON TIPPED AS A GAME-CHANGER FOR LA 2028 OLYMPICS

Los Angeles, USA – As the world gears up for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, a surprising name has emerged as a major asset—not from track and field, not from swimming, but from the cricket field. Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has caught the attention of the LA Olympics Organising Committee not just for his on-field achievements, but for his unparalleled social media influence.

Director of LA Olympics Applauds Virat Kohli’s Global Reach

Niccolò Campriani, the Director of the LA28 Organising Committee, made headlines in 2023 when he publicly praised Kohli, calling him “a win-win for LA 2028.” Campriani emphasized the Indian captain’s massive online presence, stating:

> “Think about my friend Virat here. He’s the 3rd most followed athlete with 314M followers. That’s more than LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Tiger Woods combined.”



The statement, bold and unprecedented, highlighted how digital influence is now a strategic factor in shaping the Olympic narrative.

314 Million Followers and Counting

With over 314 million followers across platforms, Kohli stands as one of the most influential athletes globally. What sets him apart is not only his fan base in cricket-crazy India but also his growing popularity in non-cricketing nations. His posts regularly break engagement records, and sponsors clamor for collaborations with him, knowing the sheer reach he brings.

A New Era of Olympic Marketing

Kohli’s social media clout is now being considered a serious marketing advantage for LA 2028. In an age where viewership and digital engagement are key metrics, athletes like Kohli could help draw unprecedented international attention—even from regions where the Olympics traditionally saw limited reach.

This could mark a turning point: the inclusion of ambassadors or influencers not just based on Olympic sports, but on global appeal. It also opens up conversations about cricket’s potential inclusion or exhibition presence during the 2028 Games, as the sport pushes for greater global recognition.

India’s Star May Play a Bigger Role Than Expected

While Kohli is unlikely to participate as an athlete in the Olympics due to cricket’s ambiguous status in the event, his association—even as a cultural ambassador or digital partner—could reshape how Olympic Games are marketed in the digital age.

Conclusion: From Cricket Pitches to Olympic Plans

Virat Kohli’s name being dropped in high-level Olympic discussions is a testament to the power of modern-day athlete branding. Whether or not he steps onto a sporting field at LA 2028, his presence will undoubtedly be felt—on millions of screens, timelines, and hearts worldwide.