A legend turned 80
From Bundesliga glory to iconic PUMA boots: celebrating the vibrant legacy of football legend, Günter Netzer.
September 18, 2024From Bundesliga glory to iconic PUMA boots: celebrating the vibrant legacy of football legend, Günter Netzer.
September 18, 2024September 14, 2024, marked the 80th birthday of Günter Netzer, one of the most iconic footballers in German history. Known for his exceptional skills on the field and his vibrant personality, Netzer was a pioneer in many ways, including being the first footballer in Germany to wear colourful football boots, made by PUMA.
A star of the 70s
Günter Netzer’s most successful period was during the early 1970s. Playing for Borussia Mönchengladbach, he led the team to Bundesliga titles in 1970 and 1971. His crowning achievement came in 1973 when he played a pivotal role in winning the DFB-Pokal. In a memorable final, Netzer famously substituted himself into the game and scored the winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory. This moment not only cemented his status as a football legend but also showcased his unique flair and confidence.
The move to Real Madrid
In 1973, Netzer transferred to Real Madrid, where he continued to shine. He helped the team win two La Liga titles, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best midfielders of his time. Additionally, Netzer was a key player for the West Germany national team, contributing to their victories in the 1972 UEFA European Championship and the 1974 FIFA World Cup.
The big colourful ones are coming
Just in time for the holiday season, PUMA introduced vibrant football boots, aiming to tie in the triumph of our colourful athletic and ski shoes. These eye-catching boots weren’t just about making a bold fashion statement; they were designed to boost sales by leveraging the appeal of color, which had already proven popular with both young and older customers.
Netzer liked the ideas so much, that PUMA decided to honour his legacy, by creating a special edition of football boots known as the “Netzer Azur.” These boots feature his favourite colour combination of yellow and blue, reflecting his vibrant personality and iconic style on the field. The design of these boots is not only a tribute to Netzer’s legacy but also incorporates modern technology to enhance performance. Built with high-quality materials, they provide excellent support, comfort, and traction, making them suitable for both firm natural surfaces and artificial grass.
“After PUMA livened up the pitches with the yellow ‘Formstrip’, I thought to myself: 'Why not get away from the sometimes somewhat dreary black and use the colors of youth in football boots too? The whole world has become more colorful, especially the young world, which is why I will now be playing in these blue and yellow PUMA super boots.”
1973 - Netzer Azur
1973 - Netzer Azur
Dear Mr. Dassler,
I would like to congratulate you on your new football boot, the PUMA-JET. The entire construction of the shoe is perfect and truly ideal. I am particularly impressed by the new heel valve design for protecting the Achilles tendon. I can only say: unique.
With this development, you have done athletes a great service that will be recognized in all athletic circles – I am convinced of that.
You really must try these shoes yourself to appreciate the great progress that has been made.
I am truly impressed.
Yours sincerely
Günter Netzer
The colourful PUMAs
PUMA Catalogue 1972
PUMA Catalogue 1973
PUMA Catalogue 1974
PUMA Catalogue 1975
A lasting legacy
The “Netzer Azur” boots are part of PUMA’s effort to celebrate football legends and their contributions to the sport. By combining a classic colour scheme with contemporary design elements, these boots aim to inspire both current players and fans of football history. Netzer’s influence on the game, both through his exceptional play and his pioneering fashion choices, continues to be felt today.
In celebration of Günter Netzer’s 80th birthday, PUMA and Borussia Mönchengladbach teamed up to release a limited edition jersey on September 14, 2024. The timeless retro design flew off the shelves and sold out within hours, capturing the hearts of fans young and old.
