Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, has joined e-sports organisation Wylde as a co-owner, and the legendary sprinter will have an active role in the Dublin-based group's efforts to fulfil its "global ambition," with e-sports forecast to attract 1bn global viewers by 2025.
Wylde was founded by former JP Morgan investment banker Steve Daly and former American Ireland Funds president and CEO David Cronin two years ago, and now has teams competing in e-sports tournaments in the UK, Ireland, Germany and France across games such as Rainbow Six Siege, Valorant, Rocket League and FIFA.
"Wylde is on a journey to becoming one of the biggest brands in the fastest growing sport in the world. In esports, like in track & field, it’s critical to have that competitive, winning mentality," said eight-time Olympic champion Bolt, who will support Wylde's mission to "identify, empower and support talent whilst adopting a strong commitment to diversity and inclusivity."
"I look forward to working with the Wylde leadership team to help our players to reach their potential, while also taking care of their physical and mental wellbeing."
Cronin said that Bolt's investment "takes Wylde to the next level" and that his guidance would be "invaluable as we continue to build professional structures to support the development of our players."
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The Wylde co-owners said they are building a responsible e-sports and entertainment brand centred on a strong revenue model and pragmatic leadership to maximise return on investment, with sustainable business practices "key" to its offering.
Wylde established an academy for gaming talent with community tournaments, professional coaching and a number of boot camps across Europe, with plans to host a boot camp in Bolt's native Jamaica later this year.
The organisation is also engaged in sponsorship discussions with a number of global brands, bolstered by the involvement of the global superstar and world record holder over 100 and 200 metres.
E-sports' will feature at both the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Esports Championships in 2022, highlighting its status as the world's fastest-growing spectator sport.
Photo: David Cronin, Usain Bolt and Steve Daly, co-owners of WYLDE esports.
