Skechers Signs Soccer Legend Ruud Gullit

Skechers has bolstered its ambassador roster with a soccer icon.

The brand announced Monday that it has signed Ruud Gullit — widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time — as an ambassador. Gullit, the captain of the Netherlands National Team that won the UEFA European Championship in 1988, is the brand’s first ambassador in Benelux.

In a statement, Skechers said Gullit will be featured in its multiplatform marketing efforts for its footwear and apparel, including Hands Free Slip-ins, which will be his first campaign.

“I’ve always had a love for stylish shoes. My time playing football in Italy only enhanced that, and the look and feel of Skechers continues to impress me,” Gullit said in a statement. “I’ve thoroughly studied their shoes and visited several stores before engaging with the brand. The versatility of their range immediately appealed to me — especially the comfort, convenience and style of Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins. There’s something for everyone, as I like to say. Whether I’m doing analysis on television, working out, playing golf or attending a more formal event, Skechers offers appropriate shoes for every occasion.”

Gullit is the latest soccer legend to work with Skechers, which includes former players in its lifestyle advertising across Europe. Other legendary athletes in its European marketing efforts include Jamie Redknapp, Frank Lebœuf and Fabio Cannavaro.

Aside from the retired legends, Skechers has several current soccer stars on its roster wearing the brand’s boots on the pitch, including Harry Kane, Mohammed Kudus, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Anthony Elanga.

Beyond soccer, the Skechers athlete ambassador roster includes stars across all sports, such as WNBA rookie Rickea Jackson, NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid and baseball players Aaron Nola, Brendan Donovan and Chris Taylor.

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.