Pepsi bags another football hero with Thierry Henry deal

by Jennifer Whitehead,, Brand Republic 26-Nov-04, 08:40

LONDON - Thierry Henry has the talent and looks to rival David Beckham, not to mention an alluring French accent instead of an Essex one, and he now also has a Pepsi advertising deal in common with 'Golden Balls'.

Henry, the Arsenal and France footballer, joins players such as Beckham, Ronaldinho, Fernando Torres and Roberto Carlos as a representative of the soft drink brand.

Pepsi has become famous for a series of epic commercials starring its footballers, including a medieval-themed battle and a Western showdown. The next spot is reported to be a 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'-style piece, starring Beckham, Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce.

Henry said: "Like everyone else, I have seen the amazing advertising that Pepsi has created over the last few years. It is always something I thought was great. So when an opportunity came up for me to join Pepsi's squad of players, it was a simple decision."

As well as signing individual stars, Pepsi has deals with teams including Real Madrid and Manchester United.

Richard Collins, director of brand marketing at Pepsi distributor Britvic, said: "Thierry Henry, as one of the world's most thrilling footballers, embodies our 'Dare for More' ethos and his signing highlights Pepsi's commitment to working with the biggest names in world football, providing even more football experiences for Pepsi fans across the globe."

Pepsi retains Abbott Mead Vickers BBDO as its creative agency, with media buying and planning handled by MindShare.

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