REIMAGINING FOOTBALL LEGACY

Last week, LN-CC opened its doors to celebrate the launch of the VEJA Panenka sneaker, a silhouette infused with the essence of football’s enduring cultural legacy. More than a shoe, the Panenka represents the sport’s infiltration into everyday life, transcending stadiums to shape music, fashion, language, and beyond. In true LN-CC fashion, the evening was an immersive experience, with a panel discussion featuring key voices from the worlds of fashion, media, and music, complemented by striking creative installations throughout the store.

Guests arrived to find a bold graffiti installation wrapping around LN-CC’s entrance, setting the tone with raw, street-level energy. Inside, the Cobalt room, the walls had been completely taken over by Panenka visuals, immersing everyone in the sneaker’s aesthetic. l8te, LN-CC’s underground space, became a hybrid of gallery and forum, its walls glowing with a custom light installation and covered in the Panenka campaign imagery. Accoutrement’s panel furniture dressing tied it all together, giving the space a sharp yet effortless feel, ideal for the night’s conversations.

Doors opened at 7pm, with a carefully curated panel discussion commencing at 7:45pm. Moderated by James Bird, Editor at Mundial, the conversation traced football’s evolution from sport to cultural phenomenon. From historic moments to contemporary crossovers, the discussion explored how football has infiltrated film, music, and everyday vernacular, shaping identity far beyond the pitch.

Marva Keel of Rinse FM examined the sport’s unifying power, breaking down age and gender barriers and illuminating its synergy with music culture. Steve Salter of LN-CC dissected football’s enduring influence on fashion, from vintage jerseys becoming streetwear staples to high fashion collaborations that merge sport with luxury. Closing the discussion, Enrico Pasi of VEJA reflected on the intersection of community and the importance of it driving product and connection, articulating the ethos behind the Panenka sneaker and its relevance beyond the die-hard football crowd.

Following the panel, guests enjoyed an evening of music, drinks, and good vibes, keeping the energy high until closing. Conversations flowed, sneakers got their moment in the spotlight, and the night proved that football’s influence is as strong off the pitch as it is on it. A proper send-off for the Panenka, and just another reminder that football culture never sleeps.