FCC + Adidas

Services Rendered: Character Development & Illustration

Working with FC Cincinnati and Adidas to deisgn and illustrate the official kit for the “Hell is Real” derby in 2025 was insane and a life goal of a professional team, my home team, to wore my work on their back.

Creative Brief & Project Results

Ask:
To create the illustration artwork for the “Hell is Real” derby 2025 for Adidas + FC Cincinnati game worn kits.

Goals:
This project wasn’t just about design—it was about legacy. I wanted to create a kit that captured the fire of the derby and the pride of the city, all while fulfilling a dream of seeing my work carried into competition by pros.

Results:
The response was overwhelming: strong merchandise sales, wide fan adoption, and a wave of media attention that cemented the kits as a standout moment for the rivalry.

FCC x Adidas

“Hell is Real” Derby 2025

The “Hell is Real” Derby is the fierce rivalry between FC Cincinnati and the Columbus Crew, two Ohio clubs separated by just over 100 miles and united by a deep competitive fire.

Named after the massive “Hell is Real” billboard that greets travelers along I-71 between Cincinnati and Columbus, the derby has quickly become one of the most passionate fixtures in American soccer.

More than just a game, it’s a clash of cultures—Cincinnati’s rising soccer scene against Columbus’ championship pedigree—where packed stadiums, electric atmospheres, and unforgettable moments fuel a rivalry that embodies the spirit of Ohio sports.