Nike x Kobe x Barcelona join forces in a powerful new collection that unites Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality with FC Barcelona’s football DNA.
A Shared Mentality, A New Legacy
Nike has announced an innovative partnership. This collaboration merges the legendary Mamba Mentality of Kobe Bryant with the elite spirit of FC Barcelona in football. Notably, it marks the debut of the Kobe Sheath logo in professional football. This unique blend brings together two worlds that share core values. Both are driven by discipline, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Together, they aim to inspire athletes across different sports.
The collection pays tribute to Kobe’s profound respect for the beautiful game. Additionally, it highlights his admiration for FC Barcelona’s unique style. This style is rooted in teamwork, joy, and tactical precision. In return, FC Barcelona recognizes Kobe’s impact as a global athlete. He embodied the ideals that the club strives for, including dedication, innovation, and excellence.
The 2025–26 Away Kit: A Tribute to Greatness
At the heart of the collection is the FC Barcelona 2025–26 away kit, where the iconic Swoosh makes way for the Kobe Sheath. The jersey features a Team Gold base with Persian Violet and black accents, nodding to Kobe’s on-court colorways. The shorts incorporate a subtle snakeskin-textured pattern, and both the club crest and Kobe Sheath are elevated with a glossy 3D snakeskin finish. Even the socks bear the Kobe insignia, completing a full-kit tribute to the late icon.
This is not just a kit — it’s a symbol of what happens when two sporting cultures collide with a shared obsession for better.
Footwear and Apparel Drops
Nike is also releasing a range of footwear to complement the kit. The lineup includes the Kobe x FC Barcelona Air Force 1 Protro, the Kobe 4 Protro, and a post-match slide. Alongside these, the brand is launching co-branded lifestyle apparel that blends performance design with streetwear style.
Each piece highlights Kobe’s legacy and reflects Barça’s bold identity. Together, they form a collection that speaks to fans of both basketball and football.
“Better is the Only Choice”
The campaign, titled Mamba Rondo, draws inspiration from the intense training ethos of both Kobe and Barça. Voiced by first-team coach Hansi Flick, the film highlights the iconic rondo drill — a symbol of endless repetition and self-improvement — and features club stars including Gavi, Alexia Putellas, Frenkie de Jong, and more. It’s a visual and emotional embodiment of the mantra: better is the only choice.
Looking Ahead: Where Mamba Meets the Pitch
The Kobe x FC Barcelona apparel collection will be available globally on July 29 via nike.com, the Barça Official Store, and select retailers. The footwear releases July 31, with more markets to follow. Fans will also get to see the away kit in action when FC Barcelona faces FC Seoul on July 31, as part of their preseason tour in Asia.
This collaboration goes far beyond product — it’s a movement designed to inspire the next generation of athletes through two of the most iconic mentalities in sport.
Follow Sneakerize.gr On Instagram
Like Sneakerize.gr On Facebook
Follow Sneakerize.gr On Twitter
