Adidas to Make Santos Kits From 2028
- New Kit Manufacturer: Brazilian club Santos FC is finalizing a significant kit manufacturing deal with Adidas, set to commence in January 2028, replacing Umbro after their current agreement concludes.
- Partnership Duration and Timing: The proposed partnership with Adidas is for six years, starting in 2028 because an earlier switch was ruled out due to Adidas' 18-month design timelines and a desire for a fully customized launch.
- Global Reach and Marketing: A key focus of the Adidas deal is to expand Santos FC's international presence by stocking their gear in approximately 120 Adidas flagship and retail stores across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Brazilian giants Santos FC are on the verge of completing a landmark kit manufacturing deal with Adidas starting in January 2028. Following reports in Brazil from journalists Lucas Musetti, Bruno Lima, and Ana Canhedo, the club is set to finalize terms with the German sportswear giant, concluding Umbro's long-running tenure once the current agreement expires at the end of December 2027.
Santos to Sign Six-Year Adidas Partnership
An earlier switch for the 2027 season was initially explored to potentially align with the heavily rumored return of Neymar Jr. However, that plan was ultimately ruled out due to Adidas' standard 18-month design and production timelines. Rather than rushing generic teamwear designs or incurring contract termination fees with Umbro, both sides agreed that a proper, fully customized launch for the 2028 campaign would deliver a much stronger project.
The proposed six-year agreement places a massive emphasis on international reach. Adidas aims to stock Santos gear across approximately 120 flagship and retail stores worldwide, spanning the Americas, Europe, and Asia to broaden the club's global footprint.
While Umbro holds contractual rights to match any competing bid, club executives believe the Double Diamond brand cannot match Adidas' marketing scale, global retail logistics, and worldwide presence. The deal will mark Adidas' first time outfitting the Peixe since their brief partnership in the early 1980s.