In the world of football, David Beckham and the Adidas Predator each stand as icons in their own right. But together, they share an unshakeable legacy that encompasses several historic moments in the field. It’s only fitting then, that the 48-year-old football extraordinaire should be the face of the Predator franchise as it celebrates 30 years of glory.
To commemorate this momentous occasion, Adidas Malaysia has unveiled the World of Predator exhibition at The Exchange TRX, officiated by the legendary footballer himself on Thursday, 1 February 2024. The event showcases the monumental history of the Predator through an archive walk of every boot and its unique technology since the franchise’s inception in 1994.
Adidas has also partnered with Predator aficionado, Mohamad Anas Faiz bin Mohamad Amin, to put together the walkthrough with 22 physical boots of the 19 iterations from his personal collection of Predator 1994-2023. Highlighting the exhibition is the latest member of the franchise—Predator 24—which blends the nostalgic ‘90s aesthetic of the Predator Original with the lightweight design capabilities seen in the Predstrike and Predator 30 models.
Notable features that define the new Predator 24 include the signature tri-colour palette in black, white and red, completed with vibrant yellow taping. It comes in three executions that offer a combination of design features with varying price points: laced, laceless and a classic laced variant with the famed fold over tongue. The fold over tongue Predator 24 is exclusively available to purchase on ground at the World of Predator Exhibition alongside other variations, which are also available online.
Football lovers and Beckham fans alike are invited to immerse in the evolution of the Predator through engagement activities, photo corners and a retail space offering boots, jerseys, football-inspired Originals footwear. Attendees will not only experience the best of Adidas’ football gear, but also get to purchase and enjoy personalisation services on ground.
Adidas Creators, select adiClub members and media representatives were among those to score a preview into the World of Predator and meet and greet the icon himself on the day of its launch. BURO also had the exclusive opportunity to speak with Beckham on the exhibition, his football legacy, and his perspective on life post-football—here’s what he had to say.
How does it feel to be part of the 30th anniversary celebration of the Adidas Predator franchise?
DB: It’s so nice to be here in Kuala Lumpur. I haven’t been back for a few years and it’s my first time here as the ambassador of Adidas. The Predator was the boot that I always wore throughout my career, so to be celebrating its 30th anniversary is pretty special, and to do it here is even more special.
Can you share a personal highlight or favourite memory associated with the Predator boots during your illustrious career?
DB: To be honest, I was lucky to have 22 years professionally playing the game and there were many highlights throughout that time. I had many memorable moments, so it’s hard to pick one. But if I had to pick, I’m going to pick two.
I’m going to say the Greece goal was a big moment at Old Trafford—playing for England, scoring a goal that took us through to the World Cup. And then winning the treble with Manchester United with my favourite ever Predator boot, the Accelerator, in the 1998-99 season Champion’s League final.
How would you describe the evolution of the Predator franchise?
DB: When it first came into the market, the Predator was different compared to any other boot out there. And the technology was way more advanced. Over time, it has to evolve and that’s what Adidas has done.
Thirty years ago, when I saw the first pair, it wasn’t as light as this one. It was a heavy and chunky boot, but it was great at that time. Over the years, obviously, it has evolved and now I personally think that this pair—the Predator 24—is probably my favourite since I retired. Sadly, it’s one I won’t ever wear professionally other than with friends and my kids.
The Predator has become a symbol of football culture. How do you think the franchise has influenced not only players on the field but also fans worldwide?
DB: I think the Predator brand has gone beyond football. People want to wear the shoes and be seen in the boot. It’s not just on the football side, it’s gone into fashion as well—I think that’s what Adidas have done so well. That’s the strength of the brand and the strength of the Predator. They’ve turned sportswear into fashion items.
What advice would you give to the next generation of footballers?
DB: My advice to any young kid and the next generation is to enjoy it because things change very quickly. We know when we get older, time seems to go by faster and faster, so enjoy the moment and work hard, be dedicated, and give everything to whatever you’re doing.
Whether you’re a sportsman, a banker or you work in a supermarket, you have to give your best because that’s what people expect and that’s what brings you success. To any young kid, I always say as long as you enjoy it, that’s the most important thing. If you’re not enjoying it, you’re doing the wrong thing—so just enjoy it.
How has your perspective on life and success changed after retiring from football?
DB: To be honest, nothing’s changed other than the ability to entertain and perform on the pitch. I still work hard. My work ethic, I think, is what people remember me for in my career, other than the free kicks and the corners. In all honesty, it’s about work ethics and I take that into my business life.
Obviously, I jumped from retirement on the field to announcing Inter Miami off the field—and that was the day after I retired. I wasn’t ready to just sit back and do nothing, I was ready to jump into the next part of my life and Miami FC was always going to be that. It was a challenge but we got there in the end. Now we’ve got a great team with one of the world’s greatest players, if not the greatest player to ever play the game, in my team. It’s something I’m very proud of, but retirement really lasted only a few hours for me.
Adidas World of Predator Exhibition
Venue: Lot L2.28.0 and L2.29.0, Level 2, The Exchange, TRX
Opening Date: 1 February 2024, 6pm
Closing Date: 11 February 2024, 10pm
The exhibition is exclusively open to AdiClub Members. Interested consumers may become an AdiClub member by registering on the Adidas mobile app, website or via the QR code available at the entrance on ground for complimentary access to the exhibition.
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