Messi Spotted in "Nike-Like" Sneakers, But There is a Twist
Sep 26, 2025, by Phan Tich Giay
- Messi's Sneaker Choice: Lionel Messi was seen in a viral video wearing Off-White sneakers, leading some to believe he was wearing Nike shoes.
- Sneakers mistaken for Nike: The Off-White 'Out Of Office' sneakers bear a resemblance to the Nike Jordan 1, causing confusion among fans.
- Sponsorship Agreement: Messi's choice of Off-White sneakers does not violate his Adidas sponsorship, as Off-White is a luxury fashion brand, not a direct performance competitor.
A viral video of Lionel Messi has sparked a debate among football fans online, with some criticizing the Adidas superstar for appearing to wear sneakers from the rival brand, Nike, while out for dinner with his family and the Suarez family.
Messi Spotted Wearing Off-White Sneakers
The sneakers worn by Messi in the video are the popular 'Out Of Office' model from the luxury streetwear brand Off-White.
From a distance, the Off-White 'Out Of Office' sneakers that Messi is wearing look very similar in appearance to the Nike Jordan 1. The shoe's design, particularly the arrow logo on the side, can be mistaken for the Nike Swoosh from a distance or in a blurry video.
This led to the confusion and criticism online from some fans who thought he was promoting a direct competitor to his lifelong sponsor, Adidas.
Not the First Time for Messi
In reality, this is nothing new for the Argentinian superstar. He has been spotted wearing various Off-White sneakers on numerous occasions over the years, as well as other luxury fashion brands.
Why It's Not a Problem for Adidas
que bizarro verlo a Messi usando Nike =\ pic.twitter.com/iT3uOTnVrR
— Noticias River Plate (@NoticiasRiver) September 23, 2025
So, is this a violation of his lifetime Adidas contract? The simple answer is no.
Athletes' sponsorship deals typically restrict them from wearing or promoting direct performance competitors (e.g., Nike, Puma). However, Off-White is classified as a luxury fashion and streetwear brand.
It does not operate in the same performance sportswear space as Adidas. Therefore, Messi wearing Off-White casually is perfectly acceptable and does not breach his sponsorship agreement.
It's a classic case of mistaken identity, but one that highlights the fine line athletes walk with their major endorsements.
What do you think of the situation? Do you like Messi's choice of sneakers? Let us know in the comments below.
Wellington Phoenix 26-27 Home Kit Released
A-League club Wellington Phoenix and apparel partner Dynasty Sport have officially unveiled the club's new home kit for the 26-27 season. Celebrating the club's 20th anniversary campaign, the design delivers a direct throwback homage to the inaugural strip worn during the 2007-08 season.
The Dynasty Wellington Phoenix 26-27 home jersey features a predominantly black body accented by distinctive curved yellow and white panels sweeping across the shoulders and flanks, echoing the aesthetics of the club's debut kit. Significant cultural elements are embedded throughout, with the central Te Raukura white feather plume positioned on the chest alongside the club crest, and a tohu pattern incorporated into the side paneling. The inside collar features custom anniversary lettering reading 'Wellington Phoenix 20th Season Anniversary 2007-2027'.
Completed with matching black shorts and black socks, the kit is available immediately via the Phoenix online store and select regional retailers. The men's team features Entelar Group as main sponsor, while the women's edition showcases OPPO on the front.
Adidas National University Philippines 26-27 Kits Released
Adidas has officially unveiled the new football kits for National University (NU) in the Philippines, continuing the brand's ongoing partnership with the NU Bulldogs collegiate teams in the UAAP. As the country's first private, non-sectarian university, NU receives a sharp, bespoke set of uniforms tailored to its athletic heritage.
The new home jersey arrives in the university's classic deep navy blue, highlighted by rich gold accents on the collar, sleeve trim, and signature Three Stripes. A prominent retro-inspired 'National U' wordmark graphic stretches across the chest, complemented by a centered Adidas Performance logo and matching gold squad numbers. Completing the look are navy shorts and socks detailed with gold branding.
The away uniform reverses the aesthetic onto a crisp white base, finished with the same navy and gold chest branding and sleeve detailing. Alongside the outfield jerseys, Adidas also revealed a light pink goalkeeper kit featuring gold trim, giving the NU Bulldogs a complete, unified look across the pitch.