Berlin – September 09, 2026 -- Former FC Barcelona captain Carles Puyol appeared at Midea's booth at IFA 2026 in Berlin, marking a public milestone in the five-year partnership between Midea and FC Barcelona.
Puyol joined Lewis Fu, president of Midea International, to present a personalized FC Barcelona jersey before touring the area dedicated to the Midea SMART MASTER and FC Barcelona collaboration.
Puyol recalls handing the captain's armband to Éric Abidal in 2011
During the appearance, Puyol recounted passing the captain's armband to Éric Abidal and inviting him to lift the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2011. He described leadership as valuing teammates, leading by example, and maintaining high standards until the final whistle.
"World-class performance never rests on individual talent alone," Puyol said. "It comes from hard work, constant improvement, and trust in the people around you. Those values run deep at FC Barcelona, and I see the same commitment to excellence at Midea."
Lewis Fu said Midea and FC Barcelona share a commitment to excellence, applying the same discipline to technology that the club applies on the pitch, in order to simplify daily life for consumers.
Puyol tests service robot and football challenge in Midea's demo zone
In Midea's SMART MASTER area, Puyol experienced connected-home features powered by Comfort Agent and Health Agent, part of the company's "A Home That Understands" concept. A service robot delivered popcorn to him before he departed. Puyol then took part in a "Shoot Like a Star" football challenge set up in the FC Barcelona zone.
Midea and FC Barcelona are in the first season of a five-year deal
The partnership, which began July 1, 2026, makes Midea the club's principal partner and official home-appliance partner. Midea's logo appears on the sleeves of FC Barcelona's match and training jerseys.
Puyol's appearance at IFA 2026 brought the partnership directly to fans attending the trade show in Berlin.