UPDATE - No More Hummel: Köln to Sign Adidas Kit Deal?
UPDATE: 1. FC Köln Set to Switch from Hummel to Adidas?
The German football club 1. FC Köln might be on the verge of a significant change in its kit partnership. Reports suggest that the club is poised to end its collaboration with Danish sportswear brand Hummel and sign a new deal with global sports giant Adidas. This potential move marks a return to a familiar partner, as Adidas had previously supplied kits for Köln during the 1980s and early 1990s. The rumored deal is generating considerable excitement among fans, many of whom associate Adidas with some of the club’s most iconic moments in its history.
Köln’s current contract with Hummel, signed in 2021, is set to expire at the end of the 2024-2025 season. While the partnership has delivered several fan-favorite designs, it appears that the club is seeking a change to align with its growing ambitions and international branding. Adidas, being one of the largest sportswear companies globally, could provide Köln with broader exposure and enhanced commercial opportunities. For Adidas, securing a partnership with a historic Bundesliga club like Köln would further cement its stronghold in German football.
The shift to Adidas could open up exciting possibilities for the club’s future kit designs. Adidas is renowned for its innovative and timeless jersey styles, often combining modern trends with classic elements. Fans are already speculating about potential designs, hoping for a blend of traditional red and white stripes with cutting-edge Adidas technology. Additionally, Adidas’ reputation for producing high-quality training gear and lifestyle apparel could significantly boost merchandise sales, helping Köln strengthen its brand off the pitch.
The potential move is not without controversy, as many supporters have expressed their admiration for Hummel’s creativity and attention to detail in recent years. Hummel’s bespoke designs often incorporated elements of Köln’s rich cultural heritage, such as references to the city’s famous cathedral. However, the allure of partnering with Adidas and its global reach might outweigh the sentimental attachment to Hummel. If the deal goes through, it will be interesting to see how Adidas balances Köln’s traditions with its own distinct design approach.
As of now, neither Köln nor Adidas has confirmed the deal, leaving fans eagerly awaiting an official announcement. If the partnership materializes, it will likely begin with the 2025-2026 season, potentially unveiling a new chapter for the club. For 1. FC Köln, this rumored shift represents not just a change in kit supplier but also an opportunity to elevate its profile and revenue streams. Regardless of the outcome, the speculation underscores the importance of kit partnerships in shaping a club’s identity and future prospects.