NEW DELHI: Usain Bolt, eight-time Olympic gold medalist, world record holder, and global sporting icon, will trade his running spikes for football boots in a one-of-a-kind spectacle in Mumbai on October 1.The sprint legend is set to visit India for a unique exhibition match, taking centre stage in an exclusive football showcase featuring top footballers, Bollywood personalities, and other prominent figures, as per a release from PUMA.Adding a distinctive twist to the match, Bolt will represent both Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC — playing one half for each side. This move aims to bring fans from both camps together in a grand celebration of sport, entertainment, and community. The event is part of PUMA’s two-day celebration, starting September 30, uniting its two partner football clubs on the same stage.Karthik Balagopalan, Managing Director of PUMA India, said, “At PUMA, we believe sport has the power to inspire and unite communities. Football is one of the most popular sports among the youth of India, and bringing Usain Bolt — our global ambassador and one of the greatest icons in world sport — to play here is our way of celebrating that momentum. Bolt is excited and looking forward to taking the pitch in Mumbai, and this unique showcase with Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC is designed to fuel the passion of young fans while reinforcing our long-term commitment to the growth of football in India,” as quoted from a release by PUMA.“We believe sport has the power to inspire and unite communities. Football is one of the most popular sports among the youth of India, and bringing Usain Bolt to play here is our way of celebrating that momentum,” PUMA India MD Karthik Balagopalan reiterated.Beyond the track, Bolt has always carried a deep passion for football. Growing up, he often played the sport and dreamt of showcasing his speed and skills on the pitch. After retiring from athletics, he actively pursued this love — training, playing trial matches, and even scoring goals along the way. Though a professional football career never fully materialized, his enthusiasm for the game continues to shine through in charity matches, exhibitions, and special appearances.His outing in Mumbai will be a tribute to India’s rich football culture and the deep connection the country’s youth share with the sport.The exhibition match will be a ticketed event, with ticket sales going live soon. Fans can look forward to a never-seen-before experience as sporting excellence, entertainment, and community spirit come together for an unforgettable evening of football with Usain Bolt at the heart of it.(With agency inputs)