Cristiano Ronaldo’s ten-year, €162 million Nike contract expires in 2026, coinciding with a broader strategic shift at the sportswear giant to slim down its roster of sponsored athletes and clubs. The brand’s decision to halt signature boot production since 2022 has reportedly created tension with the 40-year-old Al-Nassr player.
Why is Nike scaling back its player sponsorships ahead of 2026?
Nike is currently executing a strategy to reduce the number of athletes, national teams, and clubs on its roster. This streamlined approach means the brand will lose Liverpool to adidas starting from the 2025/26 season as part of a targeted reduction in tier-one partnerships and overall sponsorship investments.
This shift moves away from what has practically been the foundation of Nike’s sportswear strategy, which relied on the association with an athlete and the subsequent creation of signature lines. With Ronaldo having turned 40 and playing for Al-Nassr, the brand’s pivot toward a leaner sponsorship model has impacted its longest-tenured football ambassador.
How has Cristiano Ronaldo reacted to the changes in his boot deals?
Ronaldo’s relationship with the Swoosh has shown signs of friction during training sessions. A few weeks ago, he trained with Al-Nassr wearing an older colorway of the Mercurial Superfly named Mad Ambition, which was released in July 2024. Observers noted the footwear choice as a potential gesture of defiance toward the brand.
RIP THE SCRIPT @Nike #Ad pic.twitter.com/TEpVkq02Sj
— https://x.com/Cristiano/status/2062569217988125061
The core of the disagreement reportedly stems from Nike’s decision to stop producing signature boots for the player. Between 2010 and 2022, 31 boots were released. However, no signature boot has been released since 2022, and none were made for Euro 2024.
What is Nike planning for its next Cristiano Ronaldo footwear release?
A rumor from Footy Headlines indicates that Nike plans to launch a boot dedicated to Ronaldo. The upcoming release is expected to feature a Dark Cinder colorway as a remake of the Mercurial Vapor 13, designed to evoke the boots worn during Ronaldo’s debut with Sporting Lisbon.
Whether the Al-Nassr player will wear the new tribute boots in upcoming matches remains uncertain, given their aesthetic departure from his modern preferences. Meanwhile, Nike continues its communication rollout, which includes the official release of the Total 90 III silhouette.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Cristiano Ronaldo sign his current Nike contract?
Ronaldo signed his current ten-year agreement with Nike in 2016, a deal worth 162 million euros that has spanned phases of his career including his time at Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United, and Al-Nassr.
How many signature boots did Nike release for Ronaldo?
31 boots were released between 2010 and 2022, but none have been released since 2022.
Which kit supplier is replacing Nike at Liverpool?
adidas is taking over as Liverpool’s kit supplier starting from the 2025/26 season.
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