Pepsi has dropped the video for their new international brand campaign, Thirsty For More which features football megastars Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba and Ronaldinho competing in a ‘Nutmeg Royale’.
Centered around the game’s craftiest move, Nutmeg Royale is the first advertisement to come under Pepsi’s new international tagline.
In ‘Nutmeg Royale’ everything and everyone is a target. A trick reserved for the risk-takers who are thirsty for the rush of the game, the nutmeg requires confidence, skill and impeccable timing. Outwitting each other, as well as unsuspecting locals alike, the elite football stars battle it out in a nutmeg tournament.
The carbonated-drink giant brings the worlds of football culture and entertainment together in a star-studded campaign. Thirsty For More is a shared mindset between the brand and its consumers and celebrates and rewards those who pursue their curiosity to experience the exciting and unexpected.
The ad begins with seven time Ballon D’Or winner Leo Messi getting distracted by a fan offering him a Pepsi which results in him getting ‘megged.
The distraction acts as the catalyst for the nutmeg royale battle which ensues, and the unexpected football fun kick-started by the global football stars grabs the attention of everyone from local passersby to news channels around the world.
Social media can then be seen going haywire with reputable football journalist and influencer Fabrizio Romano telling telling the world about the fast footwork on his platforms.
Enter Paul Pogba and Ronaldinho who make their skills clear to secure their places on the nutmeg leaderboard in the showdown, which is delivered with the voice of iconic sport commentator Peter Drury who is shocked to see the football stars getting nutmegged by local players.
“Pepsi brand has always connected with fans through our shared passions, like music and football, both of which allow us to celebrate and have fun with our consumers across the Middle East. We’re excited to launch the ‘Nutmeg Royale’ film, as football season begins. Football brings us all together, across generations and borders, to share a love of the game, and the ‘Nutmeg Royale’ film captures this spirit.” said CEO of PepsiCo Middle East, Aamer Sheikh.
Football stars getting megged
Directed by Barcelona’s multi award-winning filmmaker Ernest Desumbila, film is layered with football culture references from start to finish, highlighting the universality of the much-adored game.
Fans may also recognize the jersey worn by players, which pays homage to the iconic 2002 Pepsi football jersey, which is a nod to the brand’s long and unparalleled impact on football culture.
The football stars spoke about how they enjoyed filming the latest Pepsi ad.
“It’s great to be back working with Pepsi and creating entertaining football moments for fans. I had a lot of fun shooting this campaign – it’s highly-energetic and allowed me to showcase one of my favorite football skills – the nutmeg!” said Messi.
“This is one of my favorite Pepsi campaigns that I’ve worked on yet! Everything is centered around the nutmeg football trick, which is cool and fun – two things I’m all about. If you are Thirsty for greatness, you have to take risks. This film is for the everyone with that Thirsty mindset, ready to play hard and make exciting things happen!” said Pogba.
Don’t miss the hidden code
Fans watching closely may have noticed a hidden code. They need to scan this to have a chance of getting their hands on an exciting new launch from Pepsi, set to drop in the coming weeks.
Speaking about the upcoming launch, Ronaldinho stated:
“I always have a great time working with Pepsi and wearing that iconic blue jersey. I know fans will love this new campaign, and I can’t wait for them to see the upcoming nutmeg activity we have planned too!”