Bad Bunny and Lionel Messi reveal breakthrough Adidas collaboration: 'We hope to create a legacy'

In a groundbreaking collaboration, global music phenomenon Bad Bunny and soccer legend Lionel Messi join forces to present a ground-breaking line of Adidas shoes that epitomizes the golden age of sports and music: the Bad Bunny x Messi collection, which is scheduled to be released on Saturday (October 26).

Bad Bunny – whose dynamism has taken him from top festivals to the upper echelons of global music icons – shared how their initial meeting was imbued with mutual insight and enthusiasm for this collection. “That first meeting with Messi was incredible. From the moment we got together, the vibe was good,” the Puerto Rican superstar revealed in an exclusive interview with Billboard Español. “We talked about our visions and what we wanted to achieve with the collection. We are both passionate about what we do, and it shows in every idea we shared. It was a smooth and natural process and I will never forget it.”

The collection redefines Adidas' heritage through two iconic silhouettes: the Adidas Gazelle and the adidas F50 mesh, each embodying the essence of its muse. The creative infusion is very personal, with references to their roots and triumphs. “I think we brought both my style and Messi's, mainly based on the naturalness with which each of us approaches what we do. We were inspired by a 1949 Adidas shoe that showcased the natural brown colors of the leather,” noted Bad Bunny.

Lionel Messi, meanwhile, spoke to Billboard Español about the role music plays in his life. “Music is connected to many aspects of life. Not only in football, although it is true that there is a special relationship between the two worlds, but also with leisure moments, with training in the gym, with traveling while driving,” he said. “Music is something that I really like and it's present in several moments of my daily life,” he added, also mentioning that Bad Bunny is an artist that is “never missing” from his playlists.

Building on the theme of the collaboration, Bad Bunny recalled a moment that stood out during the creative process: “A memorable moment for me was when we started formulating the vision for this collaboration. To work with someone as iconic as Messi and to see how each of us brought ideas and concepts to the table was truly unique.”

The momentum of this venture is fueled by the unwavering support of their global fans through Adidas' La Voz de los Fans campaign. “The influence of the fans has been fundamental to our career and this partnership would not have happened without their passion,” Benito emphasized. “They inspire us to keep evolving and experimenting in every project. This campaign is a reflection of that connection, because without the fans, none of this would be possible.”

Regarding the impact of his fans around the world, Lionel Messi also conveyed a sense of honor combined with duty. “I know there are a lot of people following me and a lot of kids too. For me it is a pride and a great responsibility,” said the Argentine world champion. “I've always tried to be myself, but keeping in mind that there are people who look out for me, who follow me and support me every day.”

Featuring designs such as the striped 'X' heel and blue accents associated with Adidas' heritage, the collection transcends traditional sportswear to embody shared greatness and artistic synergy. Each track is a tribute, a collective memory created for the playing field and playlists.

Both megastars see this collection as a symbol for future generations, exemplifying the merging of their realms and a testament to the greatness of collaboration. “With Bad Bunny x Messi we hope to create a legacy that reflects this unique partnership, inspiring new generations to follow their passions and work hard to achieve their dreams. We want this collaboration to become a symbol of unity for our Latino community and for the future,” said Bad Bunny.

As Messi and Bad Bunny continue to redefine the paradigms in their fields, this collaboration is not just a testament to their stardom, but a celebration of the crossroads of culture, music and sport.

The Bad Bunny x Messi collection is set to launch both online and in select flagship stores. For more information, visit adidas.com/badbunny and adidas.com/lionel_messi.