#USA #London #Pepsi #Football Legends #Refresh The Game

Pepsi® Unites Football Legends Across Generations in New Campaign

Pepsi® recently launched its latest global campaign titled 'Refresh the Game', designed to celebrate the world of football by bringing together legends from both the past and present. This ambitious project features prominent ambassadors of the game including Alexia Putellas, Lauren James, Leah Williamson, Caroline Graham Hansen, and Farah Jefry, all of whom deliver standout performances in a beautifully crafted film that celebrates 50 years of memorable Pepsi football moments.

The campaign not only showcases the talents and personalities of today’s football superstars but beautifully merges them with icons like David Beckham, Pelé, and Ronaldinho. 'Refresh the Game' is a tribute to the spirit of competition and the love for football that connects players across generations, clubs, and countries.

A Journey Through Time

The film kicks off with a modern press conference featuring the female football icons, who are then seamlessly transported into various iconic moments from the history of football captured in previous Pepsi advertisements. For example, Putellas shares the pitch with Pelé, re-creating a scene from the 1974 film 'Join the Pepsi Generation', delivering a precision pass that emphasizes the connection between gaming legends and the emerging stars of women's football.

Alexia Putellas remarked, "Playing alongside legends like Pelé, even in a fictional setting, is an incredibly inspiring opportunity. Growing up, Pelé was an iconic figure on and off the field, and I hope this campaign can motivate young athletes globally, showing them that there is a place for everyone in football."

Pepsi's ability to resonate with both football fans and emerging athletes is evident in this latest venture. As the world experiences a rapid growth in women's football, becoming the fastest-growing sport globally, Pepsi is committed to bolstering its future. This commitment is reflected through the inclusion of female football stars, each rewriting the rules and breaking stereotypes, from Ballon d'Or Féminin winners to Champions League legends.

Nostalgia Meets Inspiration

The film offers a nostalgic reimagining of Pepsi’s past hits, particularly paying homage to the 2005 'Surfers' ad. Football legends Ronaldinho and Caroline Graham Hansen are seen playing on the beach, exchanging passes effortlessly against the stunning backdrop of crashing waves. Leah Williamson arrives on the beach delivering a stunning volley into the legendary Pepsi cooler as Putellas partakes in a refreshing can of Pepsi, marking a full circle moment that ties the past with the modern day.

Caroline Graham Hansen expressed, "I vividly remember the original 'Surfers' film from my childhood, so being part of this new iteration felt surreal. The beach scene was exhilarating, and the energy we brought as athletes was palpable."

Similarly, Ronaldinho shared his thoughts: "Seeing the 'Surfers' scene come to life again was nostalgic. The film carries an important message about inspiring younger players, showing that dreams paired with hard work can lead to amazing achievements."

Spotlight on the Next Generation

The film also features a dramatic comeback of David Beckham in a Wild West saloon from the 2003 'Wild West' ad, where younger stars interact with him in a fun, light-hearted scene. Lauren James joins the iconic English star, reinforcing the message of unity among old and new generations of players. "To share the screen with legendary players from both past and present is a career highlight and a dream come true," James reflected.

The leadership role that these football stars play reflects the positive trajectory of women’s sports, as emphasized by Pepsi’s Cathy Graham Kidd, senior marketing director. Pepsi is determined to support women in football as they continue to break boundaries, aiming to showcase their raw talent and the excitement they bring to the sport. "We have an exciting football summer ahead, and we can’t wait to share it with the world," Kidd added.

Pepsi’s commitment to inspire and uplift athletes is evident as they also highlight rising stars across various regions, including names like Signe Bruun and Josefine Hasbo from Denmark, Nadine Riesen and Riola Xhemaili from Sweden, among many others featured in the campaign.

Commitment to the growth of women's football is encapsulated in Pepsi's renewed support for UEFA Women’s Football through 2030, marking a significant investment in the future of the sport. This campaign strives to ensure that the next 50 years of football are as legendary as the past, reminding fans that the heart of football beats in unity, inspiration, and a shared passion for the game.

To follow the campaign and watch the inspiring film, fans are encouraged to visit Pepsi's official social media channels, including X (Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'Refresh the Game' is a thoughtful reflection on the history and future of football, weaving together the stories of legends and aspiring athletes. Pepsi continues to evolve alongside the sport, consistently redefining what it means to be at the heart of football culture.