FC Barcelona Loses Court Battle Against Nike
FC Barcelona wanted to leave Nike prematurely a few months ago, whereupon Nike invoked its contract and went to court. The Barcelona Supreme Court has now issued a judgment on the case between Barcelona and Nike, as reported by Marca.
Barcelona Supreme Court: FC Barcelona Must Fulfill Nike Contract Until 2028
The Barcelona Supreme Court confirmed FC Barcelona cannot withdraw from its sponsorship contract with Nike. The court rejected the appeal lodged by the club, stating that they must fulfill the contract signed until 2028.
The court order specifically states that Barcelona is not entitled to unilaterally withdraw from the contract and must preserve and fulfill the advertising sponsorship agreement. The court also prohibits Barcelona from ceasing the execution of its obligations and entering into agreements with third parties that are incompatible with the current contract.
Barcelona cited breaches, abusive clauses, and supply problems
The club had denounced the contract, citing breaches, abusive clauses, and supply problems.
It remains to be seen how this ruling will affect the club's negotiations with Nike to renegotiate the contract, which was reportedly seeking a payment of 120 million euros per season for a ten-year period.
Retailers were not able to order any Barcelona products from 2025
Footy Headlines is aware of further problems between Nike and FC Barcelona. Retailers were not able to order any Barcelona product from 2025, unlike those of other top teams like PSG, Liverpool, and Chelsea. It remains to be seen if Barcelona gets a new collection from Nike for 2025 (we still expect so) and if this collection will be available to buy globally (we have our doubts).
Do you think Barcelona and Nike will stay together until 2028 (or even extend their contract beyond 2028)? Let us know in the comments below.
