Nike to Create Immersive Experience at Centre Pompidou During the Olympics

In addition to outfitting a large number of athletes for the Paris Olympics, Nike is partnering with the Centre Pompidou, one of the most storied landmarks in the city, for a unique celebration of sport and culture during the Games.

The sports brand will open an “Art of Victory” exhibition on Wednesday, focusing on its Nike Air franchise at the site that inspired the design of the Air Max 1 nearly 40 years ago.

Nike will transform the Centre Pompidou’s facade into a canvas that will showcase stories of sport. 

“The message of this partnership, for me, is to go ahead and be bold when you have a good idea,” said Tinker Hatfield, who said the Pompidou’s inside-out architecture was the inspiration for the Air cushioning technology he used for the Air Max 1. “Go ahead and take a risk. Be at least a little disruptive so people notice what you’re doing. I think that’s true for the building as well as the Air Max 1. The technology is important, but it’s the act of boldness and being disruptive that made everybody pay attention.” 

In addition. a public and skateable sculpture, “Cycloid Piazza,” designed by French artist Raphaël Zarka with the collaboration of the architect Jean-Benoît Vétillard and commissioned by the Centre Pompidou with the support of Nike, will also be on display.

Daily programming will include running, basketball, global football, skate and breaking experiences.

The “Art of Victory” exhibition will be open Wednesday to Aug. 11. Access to the Centre Pompidou’s exhibitions and permanent collection will be free for those under 26 years old during this period.