DFB deal with Nike: Robert Habeck open to talks with DFB President Neuendorf

Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck (Greens) has shown himself open to a conversation with DFB President Bernd Neuendorf about the association’s Nike deal. “First of all, big congratulations on the national team’s victory yesterday. Joy of playing, commitment and passion – I’m looking forward to the European Championships,” said the Green politician to the dpa news agency after the DFB team’s 2-0 win the evening before in France. “And of course, we always like to talk – then maybe also about sport, tradition and capital and also about promoting youth sports.”

On Saturday evening, Neuendorf offered a conversation about the background in response to Habeck’s criticism of the DFB’s change of supplier from Adidas to Nike. Habeck said about the Nike deal from 2027 that he would have “wanted a bit more local patriotism” from the DFB. The top DFB officials clearly rejected this and the criticism of other politicians. Neuendorf said the statements left him “a little bit stunned.”

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The DFB announced on Thursday that the contract with long-term partner Adidas would expire at the end of 2026 after more than 70 years. From 2027 until the end of 2034, Nike will equip the DFB teams.

A report from Handelsblatt According to industry circles, Nike’s involvement with the DFB will cost more than 100 million euros per year. Adidas is said to have paid 50 million euros annually to the association so far. Neuendorf said Nike’s offer was “far above” those of its competitors.

Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck (Greens) has shown himself open to a conversation with DFB President Bernd Neuendorf about the association’s Nike deal. “First of all, big congratulations on the national team’s victory yesterday. Joy of playing, commitment and passion – I’m looking forward to the European Championships,” said the Green politician to the dpa news agency after the DFB team’s 2-0 win the evening before in France. “And of course, we always like to talk – then maybe also about sport, tradition and capital and also about promoting youth sports.”