FRANKFURT (dpa-AFX) - Federal Economics Minister Robert Habeck has criticized the German Football Association's future change of supplier from long-time partner Nike to Adidas. "I can hardly imagine the German jersey without the three stripes. Adidas and black, red and gold have always belonged together for me. A piece of German identity. I would have liked a bit more local patriotism," said Habeck.

On Thursday, the DFB announced that the US sporting goods manufacturer Nike will equip all German national teams from 2027. This marks the end of a more than 70-year partnership with Adidas. Adidas was the kit supplier for all four World Cup titles and all three European Championship titles for the men, as well as the two World Cup titles and eight European Championship trophies for the women. The collaboration with Nike will initially run until 2034. The decision against Adidas and in favor of Nike was obviously also driven by economic considerations./tas/DP/mis