Adidas Taps into Football History to Set the World Cup Mood with Zidane, Xavi, and Beckham

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup still some distance away, Adidas has decided not to wait for the buildup. Instead, the brand has started early and gone big by turning football nostalgia into its sharpest creative weapon.

The sportswear giant’s latest global film doesn’t just showcase products; it tells a story. At its centre is a fictional clash between two of Adidas’ most iconic football boots: Predator and F50. Rather than a typical reveal, the brand wraps the rivalry in a sleek, cinematic narrative that feels more like a crime thriller than a commercial.

A Plot Driven by Football Legends

Set against a shadowy, worldwide backdrop, the film features an impressive cast of football legends. Zinedine Zidane takes the lead as the calm strategist, while David Beckham, Xavi, Kaká, Paul Pogba, and Alessandro Del Piero appear as trusted allies across football’s most famous cities.

From Madrid to Milan, Barcelona to Liverpool, the visuals move swiftly, building tension and suspense. There are quiet phone calls, coded warnings, and a clear feeling that something bigger is happening. The “enemy” is never named, but the hint is clear: this is Predator territory, and rivals are circling.

The dialogue is sparse but purposeful. When Zidane orders shipments to be tripled, it’s less about stock and more about intention. As the campaign line plainly states, the moment has come to choose sides.

More Than Just a Launch, It's a Statement

While the film introduces refreshed colourways for Predator and F50, the emotional core runs deeper. Adidas also brings back a limited-edition version of Zidane’s Predator Precision 2000, originally custom-made for him at the height of his career. The rerelease isn’t just fan service; it serves as a reminder of an era when boots reflected personality, power, and legacy.

Winning Early in the Conversation

The online reaction has been quick and revealing. Fans have praised adidas for confidently reclaiming football storytelling, even drawing comparisons to rivals who once dominated the space. However, Lionel Messi, the brand’s biggest active star, is notably absent.

That absence feels strategic. By emphasising heritage now, adidas is saving its current icons for later. It’s a long-term plan that positions the brand not just for the World Cup but for football’s collective memory.

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