Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, a Jamaican athlete, has signed a new sponsorship deal. The track and field champion is now the brand ambassador for Richard Mille, a Swiss luxury watch brand, according to a new press release.
The athletes’ watch, known as the RM 07-04, is the brand’s first women’s sports watch. The brand is intended to be in sync with the limits imposed by sportswomen’s disciplines.
“Olympic Gold Medalist and World Champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has joined the Richard Mille family,” the company said in an Instagram post. “The proud Jamaican ‘Pocket Rocket’ and the most decorated athlete in 100m history is setting her sights on further glory at the Paris Olympics in 2024.”
In a statement shared by Amanda Mille, brand and partnerships director of Richard Mille, Fraser-Pryce’s work ethics reflect her outfit’s values hence the decision for the partnership.
“Shelly-Ann is not only a World Champion, she is a strong woman who combines this with being a mother. As if that wasn’t already enough, she finds the energy for her charity work, and this all-round commitment totally reflects our values,” the statement said.
Fraser-Pryce said the endorsement deal comes from a common vision she shares with Richard Mille.
“It’s about pushing barriers! People have always told me what I could or couldn’t do, I wanted to be part of a brand that knows about timing and where age doesn’t limit your progress. At the end of the day, we have the same vision as it pertains to our legacy. What we want to achieve is timeless.” She also said, “It’s a partnership! When I step on the line it’s about me bringing out the part of me which can best show this unique watch off to the world!”
The ambassadorial arrangement with Richard Mille is Fraser-Pryce’s first non-apparel endorsement deal outside of Jamaica. Other athletes and ambassadors supporting the company include Nafissatou Thiam, Mutaaz Barshim, Akani Simbine, and Wayde van Niekerk.