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The Sabrina Simader Infinix brand deal has been confirmed shortly after the Kenyan alpine skier withdrew from the 2026 Winter Olympics due to unresolved funding challenges. The partnership marks a new chapter for Kenya’s first female Winter Olympian as she shifts focus from competition to brand collaboration and mentorship.
From Olympic pioneer to brand ambassador
Sabrina Wanjiku Simader made history when she became Kenya’s first female Winter Olympian at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics. Competing in alpine skiing, she represented a country better known for long distance running than winter sports.
In February 2026, she attended the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, not as a competitor but as a spectator and mentor. The games, held in Milano Cortina from February 6 to February 22, drew global attention.
The Sabrina Simader Infinix brand deal was announced at the close of the Winter Games, positioning her as a brand partner of global smartphone manufacturer Infinix.
Why Simader withdrew from Milano Cortina 2026
Simader had come out of retirement in 2025 after receiving assurances of financial backing from the Kenyan government. According to her statements, the support included promises to refund expenses incurred during previous international championships where she represented Kenya.
However, just before the Milano Cortina Games, she confirmed her withdrawal from competition, citing financial difficulties. She stated that reimbursements amounting to approximately KSh 12.16 million in allowances and expenses had not been paid.
In addition, she requested government funding of about KSh 1.3 million to cover her Winter Olympics budget and allowances. Without confirmation of that support, she said participation became financially unviable.
Despite stepping back from competition, she travelled to Italy to attend the Games in a different capacity.
Role at the 2026 Winter Olympics
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, Simader positioned herself as a mentor and advocate for sports accessibility. She engaged with athletes and shared her experiences as a pioneer in Kenyan winter sports.
Her presence at the Games reinforced her status as a trailblazer, even without competing. The Sabrina Simader Infinix brand deal builds on that narrative of resilience and reinvention.
What the Infinix partnership involves
Under the Sabrina Simader Infinix brand deal, the athlete will collaborate with the company on a campaign titled Beyond Snow All Round Legends. The initiative focuses on themes of perseverance, growth and redefining limits.
During the Milano Cortina Games, Simader documented her Olympic return using Infinix devices. She captured interactions with athletes, behind the scenes moments and reflections on her sporting journey.
In a public statement, Simader said her Olympic return was not solely about racing but about demonstrating that ambition evolves over time. She emphasized that dreams can change form rather than end completely.
Infinix Kenya stated that the collaboration reflects shared values around pushing boundaries and expanding possibilities. The announcement comes as the company prepares for the Kenyan launch of upcoming flagship devices, including the Infinix NOTE 60 Pro.
Commercial potential beyond government funding
The Sabrina Simader Infinix brand deal highlights the growing role of private sector partnerships in supporting athletes. While government funding challenges prevented her participation in competition, the collaboration demonstrates alternative opportunities within the commercial space.
Global smartphone brands increasingly partner with athletes to connect with audiences through storytelling rather than product promotion alone. Such partnerships focus on aspiration, identity and resilience.
For Kenyan athletes, the deal underscores the potential of leveraging personal brand value beyond traditional sporting success. It also reflects how sports professionals can remain influential figures even when institutional backing is limited.
A new chapter for Kenyan winter sports
Simader’s journey from pioneering Olympian to brand ambassador reflects the evolving pathways available to athletes. Though she did not compete at Milano Cortina 2026, her visibility during the Games maintained Kenya’s presence in winter sports conversations.
The Sabrina Simader Infinix brand deal signals a transition from competitive ambition to broader influence. As Kenya continues to expand its sporting footprint globally, her story remains a reference point for resilience and adaptability.
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