Adidas nears landmark kit deal with Santos FC

Santos FC is nearing a major kit manufacturing agreement with Adidas, which is expected to begin in January 2028. The deal would succeed the club's current partnership with Umbro, which is set to expire in December 2027.

Internal club sources indicate optimism regarding the Adidas proposal, noting that the financial terms are significantly higher than the current Umbro contract. Beyond direct funding, Adidas offers a vastly superior global distribution network, with plans to stock Santos merchandise in approximately 120 flagship and retail stores across the Americas, Europe, and Asia to expand the club's international footprint.

A transition in 2027 was considered to align with potential roster changes, but was bypassed due to Adidas' 18-month design and production timelines. The proposed partnership is expected to span six years. While Umbro maintains the right to match competing bids, Santos executives believe the scale of Adidas' marketing and logistics is unmatched.