The move ends a 12-year absence for the brand, which last held a technical partnership with CAF more than a decade ago. Adidas is expected to provide equipment and technical support for CAF competitions under the new arrangement.
The German company previously supplied official match balls for the Africa Cup of Nations, including iconic designs such as the Wawa Aba (Ghana 2008), Jabulani Angola (2010) and Katlego (South Africa 2013). Its last involvement with the AFCON ball came in 2015.
Recent reports indicate Adidas is also set to return as the official match-ball supplier for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, replacing fellow German brand Puma.
The renewed partnership is seen as a significant commercial boost for CAF as the organisation continues to expand its portfolio of competitions and global partnerships. Further details regarding the duration and full scope of the deal are expected to be announced jointly by CAF and Adidas in the coming weeks.
Adidas’ return underlines the growing commercial appeal of African football and the desire of major global brands to strengthen their presence on the continent. The collaboration is likely to enhance the technical standards and visibility of CAF’s flagship tournaments in the years ahead.