Nike Has Explored Potential Formula 1 Teamwear Deal
The athletic giant seeks to supply official team apparel to Formula 1 starting in the 2027 season.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Motorsports
Live Poll
Do you support major sportswear brands becoming official suppliers for professional sports leagues?
Nike executives are exploring a potential sponsorship to become the official teamwear supplier for Formula 1. The company has been evaluating opportunities within the series following the sport's recent surge in commercial popularity.
Why it matters
Nike is positioning itself to capitalize on the massive global growth of Formula 1 by securing a major supply deal. This move would mark a return to the track for the brand, which previously held an endorsement agreement with racing legend Michael Schumacher.
Nike previously supplied racing shoes for Michael Schumacher from 1996 until 2002. Currently, LVMH is in the first stage of a 10-year partnership with Formula 1 that commenced in 2025.
The players
Nike
This is a global footwear and apparel corporation that previously held a significant presence in motorsport through athlete endorsements.
Alexandre Arnault
He is the deputy CEO of Moet Hennessy and a newly appointed member of the Nike board of directors.
Michael Schumacher
He is a legendary seven-time Formula 1 world champion who previously served as a brand ambassador for Nike.
LVMH
This is a multinational luxury goods conglomerate that serves as a primary commercial partner for Formula 1.
Cadillac F1
This is an automotive entity involved in Formula 1 that has engaged with Nike leadership regarding potential branding collaborations.
The details
Company leadership recently attended the Miami Grand Prix to assess partnership prospects and provided custom Dunk Low trainers to Cadillac F1 executives. The company also recently added Alexandre Arnault, the deputy CEO of Moet Hennessy, to its board of directors in an effort to deepen ties with the luxury sector.
Timeline
Michael Schumacher signed a personal endorsement deal with Nike in 1996.
Nike exited the sport in 2002 following Ferrari's agreement with FILA.
LVMH began a decade-long partnership with Formula 1 in 2025.
Alexandre Arnault joined the Nike board of directors in September 2026.
Roadmap
Nike is looking to reclaim market presence in motorsports by leveraging its historical legacy with racing icons. This effort aligns with the brand's strategy to align with elite global sporting properties that are currently experiencing significant commercial expansion.
Formula 1 fans may see new official team apparel lines available for purchase if the deal is finalized. Buyers should expect potential shifts in merchandise branding at future races as the league explores new supply partnerships.
The takeaway
The intersection of luxury fashion conglomerates and high-performance racing is creating new commercial frontiers for athletic apparel brands. Supporters and casual viewers should watch for potential shifts in branding and merchandise availability as these major partnerships evolve.
What happens next
An official announcement regarding the potential partnership could occur during the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Further reading
For more information on current developments, visit the Motorsports section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Motorsport.
Live Poll
Do you support major sportswear brands becoming official suppliers for professional sports leagues?
