27/11/24

1. Forever an Icon

Kia’s heartfelt tribute to Rafael Nadal is a masterclass in simplicity and creativity. Without player access or exclusive footage, they crafted a moving send-off using zoomed-in tennis courts and poignant commentary. The content proves that impactful campaigns don’t require extensive assets, just a clear message and clever execution.

Meanwhile, the ITF celebrated Nadal’s career with a beautifully designed static asset that encapsulated his legendary achievements. The clean and elegant design, paired with a sincere message of gratitude, highlighted Nadal’s profound impact on tennis. Both pieces celebrate the tennis legend’s legacy in a way that feels genuine and accessible, showcasing the power of storytelling to engage audiences while keeping the production simple and elegant

2. Raw Preparation

Nike’s latest campaign for the NWSL showdown between Washington Spirit and Orlando Pride takes viewers behind the scenes with a gritty, visceral take on game-day preparation. The content focuses on the raw and unpolished elements of football.

What stands out is the unapologetically “Nike” aesthetic: sharp edits, high-energy pacing, and an emphasis on the relentless grind. This isn’t just about the match; it’s about the journey and the sacrifices leading up to it. The video effectively amplifies the anticipation for the game while celebrating the intensity of women’s football and sport. It’s a hype reel that resonates with players and fans alike, reinforcing Nike’s place as a champion of authenticity in sports storytelling.

3. Big Impact, Minimal Time

Puma’s behind-the-scenes content from the Vegas GP is a great example of maximising limited talent access. Featuring athletes signing a camera lens while delivering playful energy, the piece offers a simple yet engaging look at the event. The creative twist on this standard activation makes the content feel fresh and premium without overburdening the talent.

After a thrilling race in Vegas, Max Verstappen claimed his fourth world championship and Red Bull celebrated with a short, sweet and completely on-brand reactive post. The video’s concise and impactful delivery highlighted Max’s achievement while perfectly encapsulating the brand’s tone. Both pieces showcase how thoughtful planning and a sharp creative lens can deliver exceptional content with minimal complexity.

4. A Vital Conversation

Bournemouth FC’s TikTok content tackles an issue often overlooked: women’s safety walking home after a football match. The video delves into the internal questions many women face, such as “Should I leave early?” or “Will I be safe?” It’s a stark reminder of the everyday challenges that need addressing in and around football culture.

Though longer than typical TikTok content, the importance of the message justifies its runtime. The video’s intimate and honest tone ensures it resonates deeply with viewers. Bournemouth FC has created a piece that isn’t just a statement but a call to action, urging clubs, fans and communities to reflect on and improve safety measures for all.

5. Retro Excellence

AS Roma’s new collection campaign, inspired by 1993, feels like a short film. From VHS-inspired visuals to the moody cinematography, the piece blends retro aesthetics with modern production values, creating a mini-movie that stands out in football marketing.

This campaign does more than showcase a new collection – it immerses viewers in an era, connecting the team’s legacy to contemporary fashion trends. The high-end execution demonstrates AS Roma’s commitment to quality, offering fans an experience rather than just a product launch. It’s a perfect example of how storytelling can elevate a simple announcement into a cultural moment.