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Nike Takes Over Germany Football Kits
Germany's kit shake-up: Nike to supply national teams from 2027
The governing body announced on Thursday that its decades-long association with adidas is over and the national team's new kit will be supplied by Nike from 2027 until at least 2034. The news came as a surprise to many, eliciting mixed reactions across social media platforms.
Fans and critics react to the change
Germany's vice-chancellor Robert Habeck was among the prominent critics, expressing his disappointment, stating, "I can hardly imagine the German jersey without the three stripes. For me, Adidas and black-red-gold always belonged together. A piece of German identity. I would have liked a bit more local patriotism." Fans echoed similar sentiments, with the majority expressing skepticism and disappointment over the switch.
Social media buzz
The announcement sparked a flurry of reactions on social media platforms. According to a poll by Kicker, 89% of supporters viewed the decision negatively, while others criticized it as evidence of the changing landscape of football. Many fans expressed concern over the potential impact on the design and quality of the team's kits under Nike's stewardship.
Skepticism and concerns
Several fans voiced their skepticism and concerns about the move, questioning Nike's suitability as the new kit provider. Some expressed fears of inferior kit designs, while others lamented the perceived loss of German identity associated with Adidas. Critics also highlighted the economic implications of the switch, speculating about potential losses for the German economy.
Backlash and calls for change
Amid the backlash, some fans called for the decision to be reversed, labeling it as a betrayal of German football heritage. Others criticized the move as a step in the wrong direction, citing Nike's track record with club kits. Despite the negative sentiment, DFB president Bernd Neuendorf expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing its potential for the development of football in Germany.
A historic shift
Adidas has been the kit provider for the German national team since 1954, with the exception of a brief period in the 1970s. The upcoming switch to Nike marks a historic change in the team's kit sponsorship. Players will continue to wear Adidas shirts at Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup before transitioning to Nike in 2027.
