How did the relationship between Nike and Messi end?

Nike reportedly lost their contract with Lionel Messi due to a 'trivial' issue that led to their relationship with the superstar turning sour.

Messi has become synonymous with Adidas over the course of his career, but before he inked a deal with the German firm, he had been contracted to Nike.

The Argentine is one of the most recognisable sporting figures in the world having also become one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Messi's talent was obvious at an early stage of his career, with Nike quickly signing him up to a lucrative sponsorship deal, supplying him with their football boots, clothing and merchandise while making him one of the key figures in their global marketing.

One Rivalry, Two GOATs, and the Era That Remade the World’s Game', by Jonathan Clegg and Joshua Robinson, which is being serialised in the Wall Street Journal, Nike chiefs were left stunned when Messi ditched them ahead of the 2006 World Cup.

Nike had been preparing their stars for the tournament, holding a photoshoot with Messi performing all his tricks. But early in 2006, it is claimed they received a call telling them to scrap the pictures.