From March 6, French sneaker label VEJA is launching the new PANENKA model—an homage to the timeless aesthetics of classic soccer.

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Named after the legendary penalty trick, in which the ball slips into the goal with a sensitive swagger, the PANENKA combines retro soccer style with modern sustainability and urban design.

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The sneaker's color palette is inspired by iconic soccer jerseys and brings back memories of legendary moments on the pitch. Vintage-inspired patchwork details not only provide extra padding, but also underline the old-school soccer aesthetic.

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The characteristic shoe tongue with serrated cuts completes the authentic look.

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Sustainability remains the focus of this model as well: The outer material consists of O.T. leather (Organic Traced Leather) — the softest leather from VEJA to date, which comes 100% from certified organic farms in Uruguay.

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The laces are made from pure organic cotton, while the outsole made in Brazil is traditionally made mostly of natural rubber from the Amazon.

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With the PANENKA, VEJA is once again setting an example for responsible production without compromising on style and design.

VEJA sneakers are available online at 43einhalb, AFEW Store, Asphaltgold, Der Stall, HHV, Jumpnshoez, Scoop86, SneakerTwins and SUPPA.

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Why "Panenka"? An Homage to Soccer Art

The name Panenka originates from Antonín Panenka, a former Czech soccer player best known for his legendary penalty kick in the 1976 European Championship final, where Czechoslovakia faced Germany in a dramatic shootout for the title.
Instead of striking the ball with power, Panenka delicately chipped it over the diving goalkeeper Sepp Maier, sending it gracefully into the center of the net. This bold and calculated move—both risky and ingenious—became world-famous as the “Panenka penalty”, a symbol of elegance, confidence, and creative flair in soccer history.

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Photos via VEJA