Ajayi signs professional contract with Adidas

Nigeria's top sprinter, Kayinsola Ajayi, has officially signed a professional contract with Adidas, marking his transition from college athletics. The 21-year-old announced the decision on Thursday, stating his intention to forego his remaining year of collegiate eligibility at Auburn University. Ajayi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to embark on his professional track and field career with Adidas on social media.

The contract signing follows a name, image and likeness agreement between Ajayi and Adidas, which was finalized in April 2025 while he was still competing for Auburn. Ajayi surpassed the previous Nigerian 100m record of 9.85 seconds set by Olusoji Fasuba in May, achieving a personal best of 9.84 seconds at the 2026 NCAA Division I East First Round. He subsequently won the NCAA outdoor 100m title and has since matched his national record twice.

Ajayi's exceptional season continued at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where he secured a bronze medal in the men's 100m event. This success comes on the heels of two victories in the Diamond League. The former Auburn standout's achievements culminated in the 2026 Commonwealth Games, where he earned a bronze medal in the men's 100m. As he embraces his professional career with Adidas, Ajayi aims to achieve even greater success on the global stage.