Both WPP and Publicis were reportedly pitching for the business. WPP’s EssenceMediacom previously managed the account. Mediacom initially won it in 2018, prior to its 2023 merger with Essence. 

Both WPP and Publicis declined to comment. Adidas did not respond to a request for comment. Omnicom declined to provide comment.

The Adidas account will be led by OMG media agency PHD, whose clients include Volkswagen, Google, and 7-Eleven. It caps off a victorious week for PHD, which recently clinched the Media Grand Prix at the Cannes Lions festival, for Uber Eats’ “Build Your Own Super Bowl” campaign.