“I admire his talent and excellence in the game” - Bad Bunny waxes lyrical about Lionel Messi as both superstars announce surprise collaboration
Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny showered praise on Lionel Messi after the duo announced their new collaboration with Adidas via Instagram on October 21. The new collaboration will include the iconic Adidas Gazelle shoes and the popular F50 cleat boots. The products will be available to customers from Saturday, October 26.
Popularly known as the King of Latin Rap, Bad Bunny is a Puerto Rican rapper and singer. Bunny, who usually sings in Spanish, is notably the first non-English artist to become the most streamed artist of the year on Spotify.
The rapper has won three Grammy Awards and four Latin Grammy Awards in his career. In his latest album, Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana (2023), the rapper had mentioned Leo Messi five times.
Referring to his collaboration with Lionel Messi, Bad Bunny told ESPN via email that the Argentine legend 'didn't hesitate to join him. He added:
"I have always been a fan of Messi, so collaborating with him is a dream come true. Obviously, I admire his talent and excellence in the game but I've also seen him as an example of how to stay humble, let your work speak for itself and stay focused. His dedication and effort are what really set him apart from the rest, and that is something I have tried to emulate."
The surprise collaboration with sporting apparel giants Adidas involves the iconic Adidas Gazelle shoes, which originated in 1966. It also includes the F50 cleat boots worn by Lionel Messi throughout his career.
As per ESPN, the collection will feature multiple unique touches and easter eggs for fans. The products will also be signed by both Bad Bunny and Lionel Messi as "Benito" and "Leo".
Lionel Messi and Bad Bunny's Adidas collaboration: Everything to know
Ahead of its release, ESPN took an exclusive look at the products of Adidas's collaboration with Lionel Messi and Bad Bunny. The outlet reported that the products are uniquely designed and include multiple special touches for fans.
The F50 boots are made of lightweight material and designed to suit Messi's playing needs. The special edition's sole is golden in color in honor of Messi's record eight Ballons d'Or.
Moreover, the 'X' on the back is a reference to Messi's iconic number 10 shirt, one he has worn throughout his career. The cleats also have Puerto Rican and Argentine flags on the side.
Meanwhile, the Adidas Gazelles have a vintage look alongside the X symbol. It includes twisted toes, taking inspiration from the 1970s basketball shoes. It also includes the signatures of both Messi and Bad Bunny.
Speaking to ESPN about the collaboration, Lionel Messi stressed the importance of the Latin American community in his career.
"For me, and I suppose also for Bad Bunny, the Latin community has enormous importance in our lives. A large part of our fans are Latino, and there is a bond of language, culture and society that is very special," Messi said.
Lionel Messi notably wore the F50 cleat boots in his latest game for Inter Miami against New England on October 19. The Herons won 6-2, with Messi scoring a hat-trick after coming on in the 58th minute.