Mumbai witnessed a spectacle like no other on October 3 as sprint legend Usain Bolt swapped spikes for studs, headlining a star-studded 5v5 football match at Mukesh Mills. Curated by PUMA India, the evening brought together sporting icons, Bollywood stars and fans in a celebration of football’s growing cultural footprint in the country.
The world’s fastest man, globally admired for his passion for the beautiful game, showcased flashes of his trademark speed and energy on the pitch. Alternating between both teams, Bolt delighted fans with moments of sharp play, drawing as much applause as his legendary Olympic exploits.
The event carried a distinct Bollywood touch, with PUMA brand ambassador Kareena Kapoor Khan conducting the toss and staying pitch-side to cheer on the teams. Stars from Mumbai City FC and Bengaluru FC, including Sunil Chhetri and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, added footballing gravitas, while actors Dino Morea and Aparshakti Khurana infused entertainment flair.
 Speaking about the occasion, Bolt said, “Football has been one of my first loves after track and field and playing in Mumbai alongside athletes, celebrities and fans was electric. The passion, the noise, the atmosphere; this is the kind of high that stays with you long after the final whistle.”
For PUMA India, the event was about more than sport—it was about building a cultural moment. “With this match, we brought together icons from football and entertainment on one stage, while also celebrating India’s passionate fanbase,” said Karthik Balagopalan, Managing Director, PUMA India.
By fusing football, fandom and pop culture, PUMA underscored its positioning as a sports-first brand committed to creating memorable experiences. Bolt’s presence not only amplified India’s footballing conversation but also demonstrated how global icons can elevate local sporting narratives.
With the night’s mix of pace, glamour, and spectacle, PUMA India ensured that Bolt’s Mumbai outing will be remembered as one of the most electrifying crossovers between athletics, football, and entertainment. |
