UEFA is in advanced discussions with Nike to become the official match ball supplier for its club competitions from 2027, potentially ending a long-running partnership with Adidas that dates back to 2001.
The negotiations, confirmed by UC3 — the commercial joint venture between UEFA and the European Football Clubs (EFC) — follow a competitive tender process launched in March 2026. According to the statement, Nike has entered an exclusive negotiation period to supply match balls across all UEFA men’s club competitions for the 2027–2031 cycle.
The proposed agreement would cover the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, consolidating ball supply across UEFA’s club competitions. Currently, Europa League and Conference League balls are provided by Kipsta, the Decathlon-owned brand.
Adidas has been UEFA’s official Champions League ball supplier for more than two decades, producing the competition’s iconic star-patterned ball since 2001. The potential switch marks a significant commercial shift in one of European football’s most visible and enduring sponsorship assets.
Financial details have not been officially disclosed, but industry reports suggest Nike could significantly increase the value of the deal compared to the existing arrangement.
UC3 stated that no further comments will be made while the exclusive negotiation period is ongoing.