By using a new collection created with Art of Football [AoF] that pays homage to the brand’s early 2000s football advertising, Pepsi has announced Real Madrid and Brazil player Vinicius Jr. as its newest global ambassador, following in the footsteps of fellow countryman and inspiration, Ronaldinho.
Due to more than 20 years of storied football seasons, Pepsi and football have a long and nostalgic relationship. In the most recent TV commercial, “Nutmeg Royale,” for instance, a who’s who of international superstars, including Beckham, Henry, Totti, Roberto Carlos, and, of course, Ronaldinho, would run riot through train stations, medieval battlefields, and more, reminiscent of some of the brand’s most memorable TV spots from the early 2000s.
Twenty years have passed since then, and to honor that time period, Pepsi has sought the expertise of the artistic minds at Art of Football to create a collection that also serves as the ideal platform for revealing the brand’s new global ambassador: Vinicius Jr.
The products in the Pepsi x [AoF] collection, which are retro-inspired and pay homage to Pepsi’s iconic 00’s football strip, which made its debut twenty years ago, continue last year’s partnership with Golden Cabane. The line includes co-branded items like a bucket hat, shoulder bag, and tote, as well as a revamped version of Pepsi’s football jersey from the early 2000s.
The iconic Ronaldinho, who is returning to the game, was also featured in the “Nutmeg Royale” promo, so keen eyes may have recognized the new shirt there. One of the most exciting players in world football, Vincius Jr., has been named the newest global brand ambassador for Pepsi, joining Lionel Messi.
Vini Jr., recently named Real Madrid’s Young Player of the Season, is the epitome of what Pepsi is calling “Generation Thirsty.” His global influence on and off the field encapsulates his personal style and love of design, making him the ideal partner to stand alongside Ronaldinho and Messi. Vini Jr. scored the only goal in the UEFA Champions League final, giving Real Madrid their 14th Champions League title.
We were able to speak with Vini, who was appropriately decked out in custom-made pieces from the Pepsi x [AoF] collection, including the reimagined kit first made famous by Pepsi 20 years ago, to learn more about his love of fashion, his time playing for Brazil at the World Cup, and his new role with the company.
Please elaborate on the Pepsi “Thirsty For More” advertising campaign.
Being a brand ambassador is an honor for me, but what makes my cooperation with Pepsi even more exciting is that I’ve been a fan of the company for a very long time. Last but not least, I feel I’ll stay with them for a very long time, and we can create something gigantic together since working with them and this amazing team is crucial to me and my reputation.
My desire, my determination to succeed, and my daily growth are all embodied in the brand. I think I can always get better. When Ronaldinho, David Beckham, and other players I adored and watched were involved in this endeavor, I would always pay attention. Being here right now is very important to me, and I’m delighted to be a part of something that will only get better.
What can fans expect from the collection from AOF?
I already have my shirt, and I’m thrilled to be a part of them since they look wonderful. The collection pays homage to a campaign from 20 years ago and celebrates the milestone by bringing back the original tee. Pepsi lovers should be happy with this.
Tell us about the significance of dressing differently and expressing oneself through fashion.
I follow NBA players’ appearances at games, and I have a lot of admiration for Americans. As a result, I am always falling more in love with fashion and enjoy dressing nicely. It’s important to everyone, and I’m quite passionate about it.
I also look up to Lewis Hamilton, a sportsman I respect outside of football, for motivation. He’s someone I like to keep an eye on because he always has his own interests in mind and is focused.
Do you believe that other individuals or players have started their own dress trends?
Basketball players abound, including LeBron James. Both Ronaldinho and Cristiano Ronaldo have distinctive personal styles, and as time goes on, players become more in tune with the fashion industry. I go to Fashion Week whenever I can, and I have a fantastic amount of excitement for anything within the fashion sector. It’s something I’d like to work on in my free time.
the business of fashion. I like taking part. To choose outfits and stay current, I used to pay a stylist. I really adore doing it.
When did you start being interested in fashion?
Soon after I arrived in Europe, it happened. Europe has a different energy, and I became enamored with it right away. When I was in France, I used to always tell my friends that French people always looked good, which is why they are such fashion leaders. It’s wonderful, and I want to learn more about the globe and fashion.
I have a lot of clothing, but the majority of it is athletic wear. Nike undoubtedly plays a part in my love of shoes.
Do you anticipate that football shirts will see the same level of popularity as basketball shirts?
No doubt. They’re popular, especially in Brazil, where football jerseys are frequently worn by citizens. I’m not sure I can. [laughs] Because I sport a Real Madrid or Brazil jersey so frequently, I don’t mind donning one when I go out. However, the Brazilian populace does, and it also seems to be expanding globally. In Brazil, team shirts are worn everywhere, but I haven’t seen many people wearing them here yet.
Can you contrast the fashions of Brazil and Spain?
I prefer the Brazilian appearance since people there don’t wear shirts very often; in contrast, individuals in the United States frequently wear shirts. I know I’m heading to a truly special event or meeting when I wear a shirt. If not, I’ll stick with my own appearance.
What does music mean to you, and which musicians are your favorites?
I place a lot of importance on music. Many reggaeton performers would be on my list because I like the genre, but there are also other Brazilian musicians. It’s simple for me because I have many friends who are singers in Brazil. However, I have a diverse musical taste and like a bit of everything.
How important is music to your football career?
I listen to music all the time. I listen to music on the drive to games, and before the game, I’ll be alone and listen to a certain song or the one I’ll be dancing to. So while I prepare for a game, I listen to a lot of music.
What does playing for Brazil mean to you?
It’s very important to me. For my family and me, being able to play for my country is the realization of a boyhood fantasy. You start to feel more and more important as the World Cup draws near because everyone is watching and hoping you win the trophy, which is so important for the nation. It is an honor for me to put on the Brazil shirt, and the World Cup will make it even more significant.
What impact has your celebrity had on your family?
Since they are all a part of it, if I’m being completely honest, a lot. They go above and beyond to help me, which is crucial to me. Being so close to my complete family makes me ecstatic. My complete family, including my siblings, and I live together, and I think that our closeness is incredibly important for everyone, including myself. I feel more important and special when I’m with them, but only in the way that they are to me.
And last, what dreams do you have now that you’ve achieved success?
Oh, I’m always looking ahead; the World Cup is certainly the next objective and level above. I can’t even wait. I’m incredibly excited that it’s almost here and that I’ll be able to realize my dream of taking part in the competition.
Photography by Rocío Aguirre and Sharon Lopez for SoccerBible
Disclaimer: This article is written by mungbobo and his views don't reflect those of PredictGov. We don't guarantee the accuracy Use your own judgment before relying on it. All images are copyrighted to their respective owners. For concerns, use our Comment Box or Contact Us form. We're not liable for any losses or damages due to this content.