adidas Originals announced the launch of Ali by adidas, a groundbreaking apparel and accessories collection developed in collaboration with Muhammad Ali, one of the greatest and most inspirational athletes of all time. The line, which will be available in the U.S., is part of the adidas Sport Heritage division which was created in 2001 for all Originals product development and marketing. adidas Originals products are designated by the Trefoil logo.
Ali by adidas includes a complete range of men's apparel and accessories that will debut in Spring 2005, followed by a full footwear range in Fall 2005. This venture is a natural extension of the research and support that adidas has provided for Ali and his sport over the years. The line, which will be available in the U.S., is part of the adidas Sport Heritage division which was created in 2001 for all Originals product development and marketing. adidas Originals products are designated by the Trefoil logo.
Sports legend Muhammad Ali is a true champion — an icon of courage, love, and conviction. He is a fighter for justice and peace, and a visionary leader who has always been loud and proud. adidas is the leading sports brand in the world, committed to passion, honesty, and innovation. “Ali by adidas” is Muhammad Ali's first collaborative apparel line ever.
In February 2004, adidas launched the “Impossible is Nothing” campaign, featuring Muhammad Ali along with 22 world class athletes including David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, Tracy McGrady, Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan. The campaign showcases adidas' broad involvement in sports and unique relationships with athletes who challenge the impossible by taking risks, setting new records, and changing conventions.
“We at adidas were honored to have had the opportunity to work with Muhammad Ali on the 'Impossible is Nothing' brand campaign. In that campaign, he expressed the focus and motivation shared by athletes around the world. This line, 'ALI by adidas,' pays tribute to the legacy of the greatest sports icon of all time,” said Erich Stamminger, President and CEO of adidas America Inc. and member of the adidas-Salomon Executive Board responsible for Global Marketing. “The union of these two names, adidas and Ali, is destined to become one of the most exciting partnerships in the global sportswear arena.”
The capsule collection, Muhammad Ali's first collaborative apparel project ever, was born from extensive research of iconic pieces and images that Muhammad, his fans, and the people in his training camp wore in the 1960s and 1970s. Prominent images from that era inspired strong and beautiful graphics, as well as stitch for stitch historical staples such as terrycloth polo shirts, hooded sweatshirts and bold graphic t-shirts. With product themes like “Fight Night,” “Ring Side,” and “Fan Wear,” Ali by adidas reflects Muhammad's heroic legacy, telling a story with every piece. This makes the partnership a perfect fit, as adidas Originals is committed to sharing the inspiration of sports legends with future generations.
Muhammad Ali said, “Throughout my life, I have pushed beyond the boundaries of what is expected. I truly believe that 'Impossible is Nothing.' I am excited about my new partnership with adidas as it will inspire in a completely new way, not only my existing fans, but a new generation as well.”
