Just when you thought the 2024 Olympics couldn’t get any more thrilling, in struts Snoop Dogg with a mic in one hand and Flavor Flav with a clock around his neck. Yes, you read that right. This year’s Games have not only brought us elite athletes like Fred Richard and Ilona Maher but also thrown in a dash of hip-hop royalty. And let’s be honest—this mashup is exactly what the Olympics needed to break the internet.
Gone are the days when the Olympics were just about medal counts, world records, and who could run faster, jump higher, or swim longer. In 2024, it’s about who can rack up the most likes on Instagram while doing it. Fred Richard, with his gravity-defying gymnastics, isn’t just out to win gold—he’s out to make sure his TikToks go viral while he does it. Ilona Maher, the rugby star with a penchant for witty banter, is equally at home tackling opponents on the field and slinging zingers in her Instagram stories.
But then, just when you’re ready to crown Fred and Ilona as the new kings and queens of the Olympics, in swoops Snoop Dogg, probably lighting up the Olympic torch (and maybe something else). And who’s that with him? Flavor Flav, with a clock so big it could time an entire marathon. What’s going on? Are we at the Olympics or the coolest block party ever? The line is blurry, but who cares? We’re all here for it.
And that’s exactly what makes the 2024 Olympics so special. It’s not just a sports event; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The inclusion of celebrities like Snoop and Flavor Flav alongside athletes underscores how the Games are evolving. It’s no longer just about athletic prowess—it's about who can create the most buzz, who can capture the zeitgeist, and who can bring their followers along for the wild ride.
For brands, this is pure gold (and not just the shiny kind handed out at the podium). Partnering with influencers like Fred, Ilona, and yes, even Snoop and Flavor Flav, allows brands to tap into massive, engaged audiences. These influencers aren’t just athletes or celebrities—they’re content creators with the ability to turn a brand partnership into something viral, something that resonates with today’s digital-first consumers.
At Athiliates, we’re all about this new wave of marketing. We’re here to help brands find their perfect match in the influencer world, whether it’s a gymnastics star with a killer TikTok game or a rap icon who can still steal the show. The 2024 Olympics are proof that the future of sports marketing isn’t just on the field or in the pool—it’s in the hands of those who can make us laugh, gasp, and double-tap from the stands.
So, as you tune into the Games this year, remember: it’s not just about who wins. It’s about who wins your attention. And with a lineup like this, everyone’s a winner.
Source: ESPN’s article on influencers at the 2024 Olympics .