Laporta: 'Nike agreement demonstrates that FC Barcelona has returned to the global forefront'

In his report presented at the Extraordinary Assembly of Delegate Members, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta began by highlighting the huge importance of the agreement with Nike, which was up for approval today. “It is a matter of great significance for the present and future viability of the club" he stated. "This agreement establishes a new model of strategic partnership and collaboration between Barça and a leading brand in the sports industry.”

The president emphasized that the relationship between the club and Nike began during the club's centenary season and is now being strengthened with a historic agreement at the time of the 125th anniversary. “This agreement, which we are putting to a vote today, significantly helps to complete the club's economic recovery of the club, which is our most important goal" he continued. "Without requiring members to dig into their pockets and without jeopardizing the associative ownership model."

He then publicly thanking Nike for understanding the greatness of FC Barcelona throughout the long and challenging negotiation process.

Laporta assured listeners that the agreement “improves, in every sense, the previous contracts, not only in terms of numbers but also in the relationship and synergies between Barça and Nike.” He highlighted the involvement of many club departments in reaching the agreement. The president also noted that during the three years of negotiations, his Board of Directors, along with Barça executives, prioritized the club’s interests above all else, underscoring that “we insisted that the best club in the world must have the best agreement in the world.”

Regarding the details of the agreement, Laporta explained that “beyond the qualitative and quantitative leap in sponsorship payments in return for the use of for the club’s assets, the payment will grow over the coming years.” He emphasized that the agreement goes beyond the negotiated figures, “as it frees up commercial assets that FC Barcelona will be able to develop through its subsidiary BLM.”

The president concluded his speech by stating that the agreement with Nike—“the best contract ever between a football club and a sportswear brand”—not only has a positive impact on the club’s economy but also confirms that Barça “has returned to the global forefront, consolidating its leadership among sports entities worldwide.”