Germany: Habeck ‘happy to talk’ about Nike-Adidas move
March 24, 2024
Germany’s Economy Minister and Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck said on Sunday that he is “always happy to talk” with German Football Association (DFB) President Bernd Neuendorf about the decision to switch from Adidas to Nike as a manufacturer of national team kits.
German football association officials previously said that US-based Nike will replace Adidas, a German company, in 2027.
The move angered Germany and provoked protests from high-level politicians. On Friday, Habeck praised the 70-year relationship between the DFB and Adidas as “a piece of German identity.” The Economy Minister said he “would have liked a little more local patriotism”.
DFB chief Neuendorf then expressed his shock at Habeck’s response, saying it left him “a little stunned”, adding that Nike’s offer was “way above” Adidas’s.
Neuendorf also said he would not apologize for the move, but added that he was available to speak with Habeck if necessary.
Nike reportedly doubled Adidas’ offer
On Sunday, Habeck appeared to soften his tone when commenting on the DFB’s decision and offer of negotiations.
“Firstly, congratulations on the national team’s victory yesterday. Joy, commitment and passion – I’m looking forward to the European Championships,” Habeck told news agency DPA on Sunday, referring to Germany’s 2-0 victory over France in an international friendly. before hosting the European football championship this summer.
“And, of course, I’m always happy to talk – perhaps about sport, tradition and capital and also about promoting youth sport.”
German business newspaper Handelsblattciting industry sources, said Nike will pay the cash-strapped DFB more than 100 million euros ($108 million) a year from 2027 to 2034, double its current deal with Adidas, based in Bavaria.
The DFB discussed that the additional cash injection would help it finance its regional associations, as well as amateur and women’s football.
Source: DW
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