After a range of controversies over the selection of Salman Khan as the Indian Rio Olympic contingent goodwill ambassador, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has written an official letter approaching former Indian cricketer as brand ambassador for the event. The 43-year old is yet to respond to the letter.
A senior IOA official told Sportskeeda, “I can confirm that we have written to Sachin Tendulkar to represent us as a brand ambassador. People shouldn’t think that he will be replacing Salman, he will be an addition to the existent goodwill ambassador. We are not looking at just sports, the IOA has come to a decision to inculcate successful Indians from different fields, in order to motivate the Rio athletes.”
According to our sources, musician A R Rahman will also be approached for the role. The official added, “We are looking at close to five different ambassadors for the event, so that success and motivation becomes the central point, not the profession they belong too.” Speaking about the Salman Khan appointment, he said, “In every sport, glamour is required in India. Our main target with Salman is to associate the sport to the mass. Plus, he is a brand in himself, his association only helps Olympic sports garner more visibility.”
Sachin is extremely active in congratulating Indian sportspersons via social media. He had recently spoken positively about gymnast Dipa Karmakar, who booked a spot at the Rio Games. The former Indian Captain also supported Sarita Devi, during the infamous 2014 Asian Games incident.
Earlier, Sourav Ganguly had also suggested the IOA to process four to five ambassadors, across various fields.
More to follow..
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