India’s Historic Double Triumph at Chess Olympiad Sparks Sponsorship Scramble

India’s historic double triumph at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest has not only brought glory to the nation but has also sparked a fierce competition among sports talent firms looking to sign the young stars for lucrative sponsorship and endorsement deals.

The Indian chess players made headlines by clinching three team gold medals and four individual golds at the Olympiad, showcasing their exceptional talent on a global stage. This remarkable achievement has caught the attention of sports management agencies like IOS Sports and Baseline Ventures, who are eager to add these chess prodigies to their roster.

Rahul Trehan, CEO of IOS Sports, expressed his interest in representing some of the chess players, citing the surge in popularity of the sport since India hosted the Chess Olympiad in 2022. Meanwhile, Tuhin Mishra, co-founder of Baseline Ventures, emphasized the need for brands to support these players and recognize their outstanding performance.

Despite the dominance of cricket in the Indian sports market, the success of non-cricketing athletes at events like the Paris Olympics has led to a growing interest from brands in sponsoring other sports. Companies like Radico Khaitan, Dream Sports, and Amul have already signed partnership deals with athletes from various disciplines, signaling a shift towards diversification in sports sponsorships.

As the chess champions continue to bask in their victory, industry experts believe that their young age and promising careers make them valuable assets for brands seeking long-term partnerships. With the support of influential figures like Anand Mahindra, who hailed India’s chess triumph as a historic moment, the future looks bright for these talented players as they navigate the world of endorsements and sponsorships.