Luis Miguel Echegaray, ESPNOct 21, 2024, 09:00 AM ET
As Lionel Messi and Inter Miami make waves on the pitch after winning the Supporters’ Shield, qualifying for MLS playoffs and breaking the single-season points record, the legendary Argentine is also generating headlines off the field after announcing an Adidas collaboration with musician Bad Bunny. ESPN had an early look at the project with thoughts from the two sporting and musical giants, respectively.
The Bad Bunny & Messi Collection includes the Adidas Gazelle, which is one of the brand’s most iconic shoes that originated in 1966, as well as the F50 cleat, worn by Messi throughout his career.
Asked about the collaboration with Bad Bunny, Messi told ESPN — via email — that he “didn’t hesitate to join.” The World Cup champion also expressed admiration for the Puerto Rican star’s songs.
“We really like their music. We have been following him for a long time, and there is always some song of his on the playlists we listen to. It’s part of the mix that always plays,” Messi said.
Meanwhile, Bad Bunny, the “King of Latin Trap” who won in six categories at Sunday’s Billboard Latin Music Awards, spoke about how soccer’s GOAT inspires his work.
“I have always been a fan of Messi, so collaborating with him is a dream come true,” Bad Bunny told ESPN via email. “Obviously, I admire his talent and excellence in the game, but I’ve also seen him as an example of how to stay humble, let your work speak for itself and stay focused. His dedication and effort are what really set him apart from the rest, and that is something I have tried to emulate.”
