New Delhi: Indian captain, Virat Kohli has turned down to renew his multi-crore contract with Pepsi for endorsing the soft drink.
He declined the offer for the simple reason that he does not consume aerated drinks.
“Virat also no longer endorses fairness creams or products of that genre. Virat has risen through the ranks by virtue of talent and hard work,” the official, who has worked with Kohli told PTI on Saturday.
“The fairness products which relate one’s success with skin tone is something that goes against the values for which Virat stands,” he added.
Currently, Kohli charges Rs 4.5 to Rs 5 crore per day for a brand. For any celebrity, the per day charge could mean either shooting for the brand or making appearances, TOI reports.
Pepsi did not say how much it paid Kohli for endorsing the brand. But it is known that he has over Rs 100 crore deals with sports goods major Puma and tyre manufacturers MRF.
Puma makes all the customised merchandise for Kohli, just like it has done all these years for sprint king Usain Bolt.
The Indian captain also endorses luxury German car brand Audi and Tissot watches to name a few. Kohli currently endorses 17 brands – all carefully chosen keeping in mind his social connect.