FIFA World Cup 2026 — Nike is investigating kit issues ahead of the June-July tournament

Nike is investigating a design issue with several national team kits ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, British media reported on Friday, after problems with the shirts became apparent during last month’s international break.

Bulges around the shoulder seams were visible on shirts worn during the international period by teams including England, France and Uruguay.

This is what a Nike spokesperson said The ‌Guardian newspaper that the company had identified a “minor issue” with the kits, adding that performance was unaffected but that the “overall aesthetic is not where it should be.”

The problem occurs on both match shirts worn by players and replica versions sold to supporters, the newspaper said BBCwith some fans expressing their concerns.

The US sportswear giant produces kits for a number of World Cup teams, including co-hosts the United States and Canada, as well as Brazil, the Netherlands and Croatia.

The kits are designed with cooling technology to help players cope with the high temperatures expected during the tournament, which starts on June 11 and is co-hosted by Mexico.

The problem arises when the struggling company faces questions about its product innovation and is working through excess inventory after a string of weak profits.

Chief Executive Elliott Hill has pledged to refocus Nike on core sports, and the company said Friday it has appointed Andy Caine as chief innovation officer.

Nike did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

(With input from Reuters)

Published on April 11, 2026