Lionel Messi, Jack Wilshere and Robin van Persie are just three of the names announced to lead Pepsi's new 2014 global superstar squad.
Sergio Aguero, David Luiz, Sergio Ramos and Mario Gomez will also star in the new ad campaign, launching in March, as well as a number of other global stars from all five continents.
“Football has been my passion since I was a little boy and it’s certainly one of the things I live for now,” says four-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi
“I am so proud to be partnering with Pepsi again and representing the brand globally as part of this star-studded team.”
As well as starring in Pepsi’s brand new ad campaign for 2014, the superstar squad will appear on special promotional packaging from March onwards.
Further projects involving music, art, digital, interactive experiences and additional special products will be announced throughout the year.
The Pepsi players took to social media on Thursday morning to announce details of the partnership.
"I'm excited to be teaming up with Pepsi and proud to be part of such a great team,” said Chelsea defender Luiz, set to play in his first World Cup for the host nation this summer.
“For me, playing football is about making the most of every second on the pitch and showing your love and character for the game – and for the fans. I can't wait to join fans from across the world and celebrate a big year for football."
Other players to take part in the campaign include Juan Guillermo Cuadrado (Colombia), Clint Dempsey (USA), Tarik Elyounoussi (Norway), Maynor Figueroa (Honduras), Mario Gomez (Germany), Vincent Kompany (Belgium), Kemar Lawrence (Jamaica), Victor Moses (Nigeria), Peter Osaze Odemwingie (Nigeria), Oribe Peralta (Mexico), Andriy Pyatov (Ukraine), Mohamed Salah (Egypt) and Gylfi Por Sigurðsson (Iceland).
Kristin Patrick, Pepsi Global Chief Marketing Office, PepsiCo Global Beverages Group adds: “Pepsi has had a tremendous relationship with football, going back nearly 15 years.
“For this, our latest incarnation, we’ve brought together our most impressive Pepsi football roster yet, comprised of players who truly embody our brand spirit and excite and electrify us every time they step on the pitch.
“Our players know how to live for the moment, and throughout the year we’ll be collaborating with them to bring our fans exciting and engaging content, products and experiences – bringing fans closer to the game they love."
To learn more, check out the Pepsi Max Ireland
Facebook page and
#FUTBOLNOW on Twitter.
