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SportsZidane to wear Nike apparel as France coach, but gets exception for Adidas shoes
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Zinedine Zidane was officially presented as the new head coach of the French national team on Tuesday, resolving a potential sponsorship conflict between his long-time personal sponsor Adidas and the team's equipment supplier Nike. FFF President Philippe Diallo confirmed that Zidane will wear Nike apparel during national team gatherings, as required by the federation's contract. However, an exception was made for footwear, allowing Zidane to choose his own shoes, which are considered technical products. Zidane, who has been sponsored by Adidas since 1996, stated he will maintain his ambassadorship with the German brand outside his coaching duties, emphasizing that his personal sponsorship will not interfere with his role with Les Bleus.
Source report
Zinédine Zidane was officially appointed head coach of the French national team this Tuesday, putting an end to several lingering questions — most notably the sponsorship issue.
The French football legend has been sponsored by Adidas since 1996, while the equipment supplier for both the national team and the French Football Federation (FFF) is Nike. This potential point of tension will ultimately not be a problem, as confirmed by FFF President Philippe Diallo during a press conference.
"This is a point we addressed, and when the coach comes to the gatherings, he wears Nike."
One Exception: Footwear
Diallo clarified that there is one exception: footwear. Zidane will play "with the shoes he chooses," which are considered "technical" products and therefore not subject to sponsorship restrictions.
Zidane's Adidas Ambassadorship Continues
Outside of his coaching role, the former playmaker has no intention of giving up his role as an ambassador for the German brand.
"I've been with Adidas for 30 years, but that won't change anything. I don't think Adidas will interfere with the French team, and I'm not going to leave my sponsor."
Source
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Zidane to Wear Nike as France Coach Despite Adidas Sponsorship, Except for Shoes