Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham returned to his hometown of Birmingham yesterday to launch “Story Twenty-Two,” a one-day-only pop-up store in collaboration with Adidas. The special event, held at the Mailbox shopping center, was a heartfelt tribute to the city that shaped his journey.
Named after the shirt number Bellingham wore during his early playing days, the store wasn’t designed for profit — but for giving back. Bellingham surprised young fans by personally handing out free Real Madrid kits featuring his No. 5 shirt from the 2023–24 season.
“I may play for Real Madrid now, but Birmingham will always be my home,” Bellingham said in a quote shared by Versus. “My family, friends, and the people of Birmingham have supported me along the way, and for that I will always be thankful.”
The space featured around ten exclusive Adidas pieces, making it a curated experience rather than a traditional retail setup. Fans, especially local youth, were invited to connect with the footballer’s journey, turning the event into more than just a store — it was a celebration of Bellingham’s roots and rising legacy.
.
The move also reflects Adidas’ continued investment in player-led, community-centered campaigns, with Bellingham as one of the brand’s most prominent young ambassadors