Since 1998 Nike have had commitments with FC Barcelona to sponsor their men’s and women’s football kit. During this period Barcelona has achieved many stellar milestones for both men’s and women’s teams. Barcelona men’s team secured 12 La Liga titles, 4 UEFA Champions League and 7 Copa Del Ray titles while the women’s team 9 league titles, 3 UEFA Champions Leagues and 9 Copas de la Reina for women’s team. Footballing legends like Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Puyol, Busquet and Neymar contributed to a remarkable sale of all the shirts and continue to attract fans globally.
Barcelona and Nike have collaborated since 2000, it is one of the longest partnerships in football in Europe’s top five leagues. But their relationship has not been as smooth as expected. Back in March 2024 Barcelona’s president Joan Laporta decided to terminate the contract with Nike as per reports. It was also speculated that Barcelona and Nike would part ways in 2028 when their ongoing agreement ends.
Nike responded with multiple offers and compromises to extend the agreement even further as they want to negotiate and come out with a long-term contract with the club.
The New Deal
The new deal includes a €158 million contract signing with a bonus for the club which will be paid over a period of 14 years.The multi-year partnership includes collaborations and effective branding and innovation design for all the jerseys made throughout the tenure.
Furthermore, the club will be earning an extra €1.7 million per year, reaching 1.7billion by the time when the agreement ends. The partnership holds Nike as the main partner of the club which includes sponsorship of all the matches the Catalan club plays, irrespective of the leagues they participate.
All the upcoming home, away and third kits of FC Barcelona will be designed by Nike. Nike will be playing the role of retail operation including the club’s licensing and merchandising.