Pitch Invasion – Barbara Smit

Description

Pitch Invasion by Barbara Smit is a gripping true story that charts the extraordinary rise of two of the world’s most iconic sports brands — Adidas and Puma — born from a bitter family feud. Beginning in 1920 in the small German town of Herzogenaurach, brothers Adi and Rudi Dassler turned their shared passion for shoemaking into a thriving business. Yet as their success grew, so too did personal rivalries, ultimately splitting the brothers and the town in two, with each establishing his own rival company.

Smit’s meticulously researched book goes beyond the personal fallout to explore how Adidas and Puma transformed from modest family-run operations into global sporting powerhouses. From outfitting Olympians to navigating the politics of World Cups and endorsement deals, Pitch Invasion uncovers the competitive tactics and business manoeuvres that shaped modern sports marketing and the multi-billion dollar trainer industry.

A fascinating read for those interested in sports history, business rivalries, or the stories behind household brands, Pitch Invasion captures how personal ambition and corporate strategy changed the world of sport forever.