Nike's New Ad Sparks Debate Among Football Fans | Controversial Inspirations from Blue Lock
Edited By
Nina Rossi
In a bold move, Nike's latest ad has stirred the pot in the football community, prompting discussions over its distinct resemblance to the popular anime series Blue Lock. Users across various forums are dissecting the commercial, which aired on October 22, 2025, igniting a fiery conversation about originality versus inspiration in sports media.
Controversy Brews Over Animation Styles
With viewers noting striking similarities between the ad's visuals and Blue Lock’s animation, it's no surprise that many have taken to online spaces to voice their opinions. Critics argue that Nike's approach appears more imitative, with one commenter stating, "That 20-second CM probably cost more than both seasons combined." Others were quick to defend the ad, emphasizing that animated football often draws from a shared visual language across media.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
The sentiments shared among fans reflect a deep divide:
Discontent with inspiration claims: Some users contend that the ad merely taps into a broader trend of animated football. "This looks like AI," quipped one participant, questioning the artistic integrity.
Praises for animation quality: Conversely, many fans praised the execution, suggesting, "The animation Blue Lock fans deserved." This shows a recognition of the artistry involved, even if the source of inspiration is contested.
Humor and Banter: Light-hearted interactions also surfaced, with comments like, "Isn't it just animated football?" showcasing the community's playful side amidst serious discussions.
User Insights on Specific Moments
Notably, some users pinpointed specific moments that seemed to reference scenes from Blue Lock. One wrote, "The frame of Kylian right after shooting is exactly how Isagi looks in some panels." This observation highlights the keen eyes fans have when connecting their favorite visuals across different platforms.
"If you don’t see the blatant similarities, then you’re cooked.” - a passionate remark underlining the fervor of fandom debates.
Key Observations
🔹 Nike's ad draws parallels with Blue Lock, igniting discussions on originality.
🔸 Viewers split on whether the ad is inspired or derivative—some call it a homage, others a copy.
💬 "This was Isagi’s direct shot pose from season one, though!"
🔍 Fans remain divided but engaged in the debate, reflecting the emotional investment in both football and anime.
As the debate continues, it raises an important question: can inspiration be consumed without acknowledgment? As for Nike, they seem to have hit a cultural nerve, whether intentionally or not.
What's Next for Nike and Football Fans?
There’s a strong chance that Nike will continue to channel popular media like Blue Lock in future advertisements, prompting further discussions about originality in the sports marketing landscape. Experts estimate that such reliance on established anime visuals could become a trend, as brands see the potential for engaging a younger audience who are fans of both sports and animated series. This could lead to a rise in partnerships between sports brands and anime creators, sparking more collaborations that blend these two vibrant cultures. Additionally, debates over artistic integrity may elevate discussions around copyright and the balance of influence versus imitation in media.
A Historical Echo from Cinema's Golden Age
Just as Disney faced backlash in the 1930s over perceived similarities between their animations and other studio works, this incident highlights how creative industries often resort to shared styles amid competition. Disney's famous "Steamboat Willie" was critiqued for its imitation of existing concepts, sparking debates that shaped copyright laws. Similarly, as Nike embraces elements from Blue Lock, it mirrors how companies navigate the fine line between homage and originality—a constant dance in the world of creativity that invites scrutiny while driving innovation.