Lionel Messi unveils black Adidas Handball Spezial sneaker

Lionel Messi and Adidas, partners since 2006, have introduced the Messi x Adidas Handball Spezial “Black”, the football star’s first Adidas shoe released after Argentina’s loss in the World Cup final. The sneaker is made of black suede with silver‑metallic three‑stripe detailing and Pure Ruby accents, featuring black leather around the collar and a fully black sole. It bears Messi’s branding on the tongue, sidewalls and heel and is priced at £100.

The Handball Spezial model, originally launched in 1979 as an indoor handball shoe, has evolved into a streetwear staple alongside the Samba and Gazelle. The new black edition will be available in autumn through Adidas’ Confirmed app and selected global stockists.

The release follows a history of Messi‑Adidas collaborations that have included baby‑blue and neon‑pink colourways inspired by Argentina and Inter Miami, respectively. The darker colourway is presented as a stylistic shift rather than a reflection of the player’s mood after the World Cup defeat.