Before the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship, Pepsi launched a new global sport called “Refresh the Game” that blends football nostalgia with modern star power to celebrate the evolution of the sport.
The one-minute movie includes current Pepsi Ambassador Alexia Putellas, Lauren James, Leah Williamson, Caroline Graham Hansen and Farah Jefry. It also brought back legends Pelé, Ronaldinho and David Beckham to recreate Pepsi's most iconic ads.
“Refresh the game” begins the press conference scene, then transfers players to an unforgettable moment in Pepsi's advertising history.
Putellas was the first to join Pelé in the 1974 film Joining the Pepsi Generation. Graham Hansen then appeared in a high-energy sequence with Ronaldinho, inspired by Pepsi's 2005 “Surf” ad and placed sharply on the water. James showed a surprise cameo in a 2003 Wild West themed ad featuring David Beckham, and his drink cleverly intercepted his drink as it glides across the bar.
The film ends today, with Putellas from Beckham's hand to James waving the can of Pepsi, James Sip Drinking – indicating that the torch passes from the icons of the past to the game changer today.
True to its name “Refresh the Game” connects the past of football legend with a rapidly growing present, connecting the front and center of women's football.
David Beckham shared his excitement about the collaboration: “We’ve witnessed a new generation of sports superstars and it’s an honor to play alongside them. Players in the sport have played a key role in bringing women’s football to where they are today.”
Cathy Graham Kidd, senior marketing director of Pepsi, added: “Our new movie ‘refreshing game’ celebrates past football legends and advocates for the stars who redefine the game today.
“At Pepsi, we are committed to accelerating women's football and supporting those who challenge the conventions to drive excitement and change. Through the power of entertainment, we hope to bring women's football to new audiences by showing the original talent and joy it brings.”
As the 2025 Women’s Euro 2025 approaches, Pepsi’s campaign sets the tone – celebrating women’s reshaping their future while several generations of football.
