Nike Wins UEFA Rights, Ending Iconic Star Ball Era
Nike has secured the exclusive rights to supply match balls for UEFA's club competitions (Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League) for the 2027-2031 cycle. The US sportswear giant outbid incumbent Adidas and Puma by offering a fee of approximately $45 million annually, effectively doubling UEFA's current revenue from the contract. This agreement marks the end of the iconic star-patterned 'Finale' ball design, which has been used since 2001. The final match featuring the traditional star ball will be the 2027 Champions League final in Madrid. Nike previously supplied UEFA between 1997 and 2001. The tender was managed by Relevent Football Partners, which also oversaw significant commercial changes, including selling global beer rights to AB InBev and securing new TV deals with Paramount.
Wire timeline
Nike Wins UEFA Rights, Ending Iconic Star Ball Era
Nike has secured the exclusive rights to supply match balls for UEFA's club competitions (Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League) for the 2027-2031 cycle. The US sportswear giant outbid incumbent Adidas and Puma by offering a fee of approximately $45 million annually, effectively doubling UEFA's current revenue from the contract. This agreement marks the end of the iconic star-patterned 'Finale' ball design, which has been used since 2001. The final match featuring the traditional star ball will be the 2027 Champions League final in Madrid. Nike previously supplied UEFA between 1997 and 2001. The tender was managed by Relevent Football Partners, which also oversaw significant commercial changes, including selling global beer rights to AB InBev and securing new TV deals with Paramount.
The Guardian