West-Germany, 1974. Cruyff in his prime. For the first time since 1938, The Netherlands had qualified for the World Cup. With star player Cruyff as captain, the media and sponsorship attention had become massive. 


As a result, the Dutch national team would wear branded uniforms; something that had never happened before. 

But Cruyff already had a personal, exclusive deal with a different brand, which he would lose if he would wear the three striped brand.


Being the most anticipated player of the tournament and captain of the team, the Dutch FA and the brand had to accept the stubborn world wonder’s demand to take off the logo and third stripe on his uniform. 

Cruyff became the first player in history that demonstrated the power of his individual status.