Nike unveiled its newly designed England soccer uniforms for the upcoming European Championships, featuring a notable alteration to the iconic St George’s Cross.
The American sports brand’s decision to replace the traditional red cross with a multicolored design has incited a wave of backlash from patriotic England soccer fans.
A playful update to the 🏴 of St. George appears on the collar to unite and inspire. pic.twitter.com/lXEjXhbIJO
— Nike Football (@nikefootball) March 18, 2024
The revised design introduced a combination of navy blue, light blue, and pink to the horizontal line of the cross, deviating from its classic red color.
The modification, which Nike described as a “playful update” intended to “unite and inspire” by celebrating football heroes with a modern twist, has been criticized for being overly woke.
WATCH:
Many fans say that the redesign undermines the country’s heritage, with many vocally expressing their disapproval of both Nike and the England team’s decision to adopt the 2024 National Kits.
The trim on the cuffs takes its cues from training gear worn by English legends. pic.twitter.com/yvy25iGaU8
— Nike Football (@nikefootball) March 18, 2024
The announcement, made a few days prior, was initially met with anticipation. However, the change, particularly to the St George’s Cross on the uniform’s collar, has since created another potential boycott.
REACTIONS:
Definitely boycott buying this Nike crap. Absolutely outrageous. DO NOT purchase. pic.twitter.com/xGYLsFAjcd
— General, Billy B’Stard VFR 🇬🇧🇳🇱🇺🇸 🇮🇱 (@VanThorb) March 20, 2024
How did no one at Nike, not one person say "This might be a bad idea" ???
— Tesh (@hitesh_punja) March 20, 2024
Worst part of the shirt, what’s wrong with a normal red cross like the flag?
— Chris 🏴🇮🇪🦅 (@BearCPFC) March 20, 2024
No room for a picture of George Floyd??
— Klaus (@_rubberbaron) March 20, 2024
Try pissing on the Palestinian glag like that. How absolutely dare you change our flag?
— Bo (@KingBobIIV) March 20, 2024
Could you be blatant in the signalling of your virtue? Our flag has 2 colours. Just 2. Pathetic narcissistic clowns 🤡
— Alan Taylor-Shearer (@cpltshirt) March 20, 2024