May 22 – The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have moved to end their kit supply deal with German sportswear giant Adidas seven years early.
Adidas and the RFEF have a deal that runs until 2026. “‘The conditions that were agreed upon when it was signed years ago do not meet the criteria of legality, transparency and fairness that the RFEF considers minimally acceptable,” wrote the RFEF in a statement.
The Spanish governing body also highlighted “‘months of unsuccessful conversations with Adidas and the impossibility of an understanding [between the two].”
Adidas responded with surprise to the RFEF’s decision, saying: “Both entities signed a contract extension in 2015 which is in force until 2026. The contract has been carried out by both parties amicably and there is no reason to justify the resolution that the RFEF intends.”
The move signals the end to a longstanding partnership. Adidas has been responsible for Spain’s team apparel since 1991 and reportedly pays the RFEF €18 million per season as kit sponsor.
Earlier this month it was reported that RFEF [resident Luis Rubiales had contacted Inditex, whose brands include Zara and Pull & Bear, as a potential successor to Adidas. Talks are also understood to be taking place with Puma.
The RFEF will have to respect its contractual obligations towards Adidas and likely have to offer compensation to the sportswear brand if a rival brand takes over the contract.
Contact the writer of this story, Samindra Kunti, at moc.l1714100257labto1714100257ofdlr1714100257owedi1714100257sni@o1714100257fni1714100257