adidas Originals today announced a one-of-a-kind collaboration between two worldwide superstars: Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, also known as Bad Bunny, and soccer legend Lionel Messi. The Bad Bunny & Messi Collection highlights the remarkable connection between music and sport, two loves that unite fans all over the world, and pays tribute to Bad Bunny and Messi’s respective legacies while confirming adidas’ cultural influence.

Bad Bunny has long adored Messi and has made several references to the soccer phenom in his music, including five on his most recent album. Messi, in turn, has revealed his adoration for the Puerto Rican singer, disclosing that seven Bad Bunny songs are on his personal pre-game playlist. As two adidas ambassadors, this collaboration symbolizes a strong mutual respect between the two stars – titans in their domains — who are pushing the frontiers of their respective crafts.

The Bad Bunny & Messi Collection is inspired by adidas’ heritage models, materials, and colorways from its extensive brand archives. It incorporates two of adidas’ most iconic silhouettes: the Gazelle and the F50 cleat. Messi has worn the F50 throughout his playing career, and it is widely regarded as one of the best soccer cleats of all time. The Gazelle has developed from an indoor soccer gym staple to a lifestyle footwear classic and one of Bad Bunny’s personal favorites.

Each model in the collection pays homage to various awards recognizing Messi’s reputation as the world’s finest male player, with gold hues inspired by the famous trophy and design details like as the ‘X’ stripe heel, which references Messi’s jersey number 10. The blue highlights tie the designs to adidas’ history, combining tradition and quality. Both the Gazelle and F50 versions include Bad Bunny and Messi’s signatures on their renowned stripes, indicating their mutual admiration and enduring legacy. The sneakers also include the Trefoil and Badge of Sport insignia, as well as the statement ‘Bad Bunny Para Messi’ on the tongue. These designs go beyond their initial sporting purpose, creating a new community that combines sport, music, fashion, and creative expression.

“Messi’s last name has become its own word, a synonym for greatness, courage, and heart,” stated Benito Martinez Ocasio. “Seeing him play with such enthusiasm is a privilege. I connect his enthusiasm for his country and sport to my love of music and Puerto Rico. Collaborating with him is an honor that many people strive for, and I never believed I’d be able to attain it. Today, I am extremely grateful to be able to represent our culture with the GOAT.”

“This campaign recognizes our fans. Seeing people that follow and support me not only inspires me, but also makes me feel extremely grateful. Lionel Messi stated, “I always try to give everything I have on the pitch, so it’s great to see that there are people who appreciate that effort and always support me, even in difficult times.” Regarding his work with Benito, he stated, “Music is connected to many aspects of my life, and Bad Bunny is an artist who is never missing from my playlist.”

adidas is launching a campaign to remember this landmark relationship by commemorating the millions of Bad Bunny and Messi supporters who have expressed their dedication throughout the years on social media, in the stands, and elsewhere. The campaign’s centerpiece is a poignant letter written by followers on Instagram, YouTube, and X (previously Twitter). This poignant message is brought to life in a short film starring Messi and Bad Bunny, who read sections from the letter, which opens with a heartfelt truth for both stars: “This country wouldn’t be the same,” says Messi, “… if you were born anywhere else,” says Bad Bunny.

With an emphasis on originality and brilliance, this collection reimagines the relationship between soccer and music, producing a moment that will be remembered well beyond the realms of sport and entertainment.

The Bad Bunny & Messi F50 will be available globally for RRP 300 EU. The Bad Bunny and Messi Gazelle will be sold exclusively in North and South America for 180 EUR. Sign-ups for the collection will be accessible on the CONFIRMED and adidas flagship apps starting October 21st, as well as in adidas flagship shops beginning October 26th.