Government spokesman Adam Szłapka criticized PKOL president Radosław Piesiewicz for choosing German Adidas over Polish 4F for Olympic uniforms.
Government Spokesman Criticizes Uniform Decision
Government spokesman Adam Szłapka stated on Saturday morning: “Polish 4F outfits several Olympic teams in Milan. The Polish national team – German Adidas.” He added that the decision was made by Piesiewicz, a close associate of PiS figures. KPRM head Jan Grabiec echoed the criticism, condemning the “anti-Polish policy” of choosing Adidas while Polish 4F now outfits Croatia, Greece, Lithuania, Latvia, Serbia, Slovakia, and Portugal.
PKOL President Defends Prezydium Decision
In response, PKOL president Radosław Piesiewicz clarified the decision was made by the PKOL Management Board, with 18 votes in favor and one abstention. He stated Adidas is a genuine sponsor paying to outfit the Polish Olympic Team, whereas the Polish firm previously mentioned required PKOL to pay for its uniforms. Piesiewicz demanded Szłapka verify his information and “stop lying” if he had no evidence for his claims.
Uniforms Criticized for Lack of Uniqueness
Journalist Krzysztof Berenda pointed out Poland’s uniforms are identical to Albania’s. Similarly, fashion blogger Mr. Vintage criticized the outfits as “stamped, catalog-like, without emotion or history,” noting Poland wore the same design as several other Adidas-outfitted nations, differing only in the country name. He deemed it “shameful” for PKOL to approve such “stock Adidas customization.”
Adidas-PKOL Five-Year Sponsorship Agreement
The five-year sponsorship between Adidas and PKOL, signed in October 2023, covers all Olympic events through 2028, including Paris 2024, Milan-Cortina 2026, and Los Angeles 2028. PKOl confirmed Adidas would provide professional attire, footwear, and equipment for Polish athletes.
Winter Olympics Torch Lit in Milan
Italian alpine skiers Alberto Tomba and Deborah Compagnoni lit the Olympic torch during the Winter Games opening ceremony at Milan’s San Siro stadium. Simultaneously, skier Sofia Goggia lit the torch in Cortina d’Ampezzo. The ceremony in Milan was attended by over 50 heads of state and government, including Polish President Karol Nawrocki and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, accompanied by an artistic performance.
