Telco Optus has signed the planet’s fastest ever man, Usain Bolt, as the new face of its campaigns as it heads into the Rio Olympic Games in August.

Controversial comic Ricky Gervais, whose deadpan monologues to camera, will continue to spruik the Netflix partnership with Optus for online, B&T understands, with Bolt for the telco and mobile campaigns.

The new Bolt campaign will begin next in February around the theme of ‘Relentless Improvement’.

Ben White, Optus’ acting managing director of products said, “It’s no secret that Usain Bolt competes to win. His hard work, fierce determination and unwavering commitment are exuded every time he hits the track.

“He is relentless in his pursuit for excellence and it seems only fitting that we would engage with arguably one of the greatest and most renowned athletes in the world today.”