Karim Benzema dismisses report Nike cancelled advertising campaign

Karim Benzema has rejected reports that Nike called off an advertising collaboration involving the former Real Madrid striker.

The Athletic reported that Nike had cancelled a photo shoot scheduled to take place in London for its Corteiz brand. According to the report, the decision followed a review of Benzema’s past and the conclusion that his image did not align with the values represented by the American sportswear company.

Benzema responded to the claims on Instagram on Friday, posting a story that read: “Fake news, my dear,” accompanied by several emojis. It was his first public reaction to reports about the alleged partnership.

The story emerged after Benzema’s contract with adidas ended, amid reports that he could move to Nike. However, his response directly challenges the account that the campaign had been cancelled, although he did not provide further details about what had taken place between the player and the brand.

Benzema is 38 and is currently without a club. Nike has not issued an official statement, according to the information available, confirming its position on the proposed collaboration or whether the photo shoot was cancelled.