The Bitter Sibling Rivalry That Divided a Town and Created Two Global Sportswear Giants
Rudolf Dassler, a German cobbler, founded Puma after a deep, irreparable rift with his brother, Adolf. Their partnership, which began in a shared shoe factory in 1924, collapsed following World War II. This family feud not only split their business but also defined the future of global athletic footwear.
Born in Herzogenaurach in 1898, Rudolf Dassler was the elder brother of Adolf, the man who would eventually establish Adidas. The brothers initially worked together in the Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik, a venture Adolf started in his mother's kitchen. Rudolf joined the business on July 1, 1924, alongside support from their father, Christoph, and local blacksmiths who crafted spikes for their track shoes. For years, they operated as a unified team, building a reputation for quality sports footwear.
The relationship soured during the 1930s and 1940s. Both brothers joined the Nazi Party, though Rudolf was often described as the more fervent supporter. Following the conclusion of World War II, a profound and lasting feud erupted between them. By 1948, the partnership had completely dissolved, leading each brother to strike out on his own. Rudolf initially named his new venture Ruda, a combination of his own name, before rebranding it as Puma, the Quechua term for a cougar.
Under Rudolf's leadership, Puma remained a relatively small, provincial operation for much of his life. It was not until his son, Armin Dassler, took the helm that the brand expanded into the global powerhouse it is recognized as today. Rudolf passed away from lung cancer on October 27, 1974, at the age of 76. His legacy remains inextricably linked to the intense, competitive atmosphere he fostered with his brother, a rivalry that fundamentally reshaped the sportswear industry and left a permanent mark on their hometown of Herzogenaurach.
Source: Rudolf Dassler
