The Russian Football Union (RUF) are reportedly looking for a new technical sponsor for 2023 and beyond. Adidas of course suspended their deal with the federation after Russia invaded Ukraine early last year.
Official: Adidas Suspend Russia Kit Deal
Russia Looking for New Kit Supplier
Since Adidas suspended Russia's deal in March of 2022, the national team nonetheless played three friendly matches in Adidas gear. In a comical turn of events, the RUF only now stated they will "refuse to wear the German brand's equipment".
We will refuse to wear the German brand's equipment
“We can say with confidence that in 2023 we will not have an Adidas uniform,” RFU President Dyukov said. “When will there be a new partner? In the first quarter. We are now negotiating - there will be a new technical sponsor.”
Adidas and Russia had been partnered since 2008, extending their long-term deal until 2026 not even two years ago. It seems Russia's only option in terms of a kit maker is a brand from Russia or one from a nation sympathetic to Vladimir Putin and his crimes.
The Russian football federation claims to be negotiating at the moment, stating a new kit manufacturer will be found by March/April. However, we will likely not see these new kits in action at a major tournament for a while.
Russia have been feeling the repercussions of their actions in Ukraine, as FIFA and UEFA banned them from the World Cup 2022 and Euro 2024 qualifiers. With Russia and Putin continuing the war, it looks increasingly unlikely that they will redeem themselves any time soon.
What do you think of Adidas and Russia's partnership officially ending? Who do you expect to take over? Comment below.