In a major move for India’s athleisure space, Virat Kohli has sold his lifestyle-sports brand One8 to Agilitas Sports, the Bengaluru-based startup co-founded by former Puma India head Abhishek Ganguly. At the same time, Kohli is injecting ₹40 crore into Agilitas, acquiring a minority stake and continuing his journey with One8 as a stakeholder – not just a face. 

One8, originally launched in 2017 under a licensing agreement with Puma, offered apparel, footwear and accessories blending on-field performance with off-field style. Under Agilitas, One8 will be transitioned into a fully owned, independent premium sportswear and lifestyle brand. Agilitas plans to ramp up manufacturing, design and distribution, aiming for a global rollout beginning with markets such as the US, UK and Australia. 

Speaking about the deal, Kohli said this move reflects more than commercial strategy – it resonates with his belief in building something “homegrown” with the potential to go global. The shift also follows his decision earlier this year to walk away from a lucrative renewal offer from Puma. 

For Agilitas Sports, the acquisition represents a bold leap. The startup already owns manufacturing assets such as Mochiko Shoes and holds licensing rights for other brands. By absorbing One8, it gains instant brand recognition, credibility and Kohli’s fan base – giving it a foundation to challenge global sportswear players from India. 

Observers say the deal could redefine India’s domestic sportswear narrative, positioning One8 under a fully Indian-owned ecosystem rather than as a licensed export wing. If execution lives up to ambition, One8 may soon evolve from a celebrity-led line into a true Indian challenger brand on the world stage.