Nike to End Hertha Berlin Deal, Castore to Take Over
- Partnership Change: Nike is ending its 25-year partnership with Hertha Berlin, and Castore will become the new kit supplier starting from the 2025-26 season.
- Financials: Hertha Berlin will receive €1 million per season from Castore, potentially rising to €2 million if promoted, a reduction from the €2-3 million they received from Nike.
- Castore Concerns: Despite the deal, Castore has faced issues, such as Leverkusen terminating their contract early due to problems.
Nike ends its 25-year partnership with the Berlin-based club Hertha BSC, with Castore taking over. Now, German newspaper Bild (Paywall) has revealed more details of the new Castore Hertha Berlin deal.
Castore to Make Hertha BSC Kits From 2025-26 Season
Nike's decision was made in June 2024. Hertha received €2-3 million annually from Nike after extending the contract for 12 years in 2013.
Castore, the British sportswear brand, will take over as Hertha's kit supplier starting next season, 25-26. While the initial deal is worth just €1 million per season, it will double to up to €2 million/season if Hertha manages to secure promotion back to the Bundesliga.
The new Castore Hertha Berlin kit contract covers all teams and, according to the report, runs for four to five years.
Nike's decision not to extend Hertha's deal fits with the brand's plan to save money by having fewer football sponsorships. Still, the Nike Germany deal starkly contrasts the brand's money-saving approach but has been a huge marketing stunt.
For us, it is quite strange that teams are still signing with Castore, which has been having severe problems. Leverkusen, the current German champion, decided to end its deal with Castore one year early due to problems. Just a few weeks later, Hertha BSC signed with them.
Image via Football Kit Archive
What do you think of Castore becoming Hertha's new kit maker? Let us know in the comments below.
