Nike St George’s Cross Design on England Kit: No Plans for Change
Nike has revealed that it has no intention of recalling or changing the design of the new England football shirt, which features a different color scheme in the cross of St George. The shirt, launched ahead of Euro 2024, has faced criticism for incorporating navy, light blue, and purple in the flag on the back of the collar. Despite prominent voices such as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer calling for a design change, Nike stands by its decision, stating that the new design is a “playful update” meant to unite and inspire.
Critics argue that the shirt’s design and price are unsatisfactory. The “authentic” version of the shirt is priced at £124.99 for adults and £119.99 for children, while the “stadium” version costs £84.99 and £64.99 for children. These prices have sparked debate among football pundits, politicians, and fans.
Sir Keir Starmer, in an interview with The Sun, expressed his opinion that the St George’s Cross is a unifying symbol that does not need to be changed. He called on Nike to reconsider its decision and also urged them to reduce the price of the shirts. According to Starmer, Nike has not provided a satisfactory explanation for the design change.
This is not the first time Nike has faced criticism over its sale of England shirts. During the Women’s World Cup last summer, the brand received backlash for not selling goalkeeper shirts worn by Mary Earps. The public outcry led to a U-turn by Nike, with Earps expressing her disappointment at the initial decision.
Pundit Chris Sutton also weighed in on the flag debate, stating that while he understands some people may feel the design is not representative of the Cross of St George on an England jersey, it is not something to get angry about. Sutton highlights the importance of clear communication from the Football Association (FA) to address concerns.
The new England kits, including an away shirt in purple, were revealed by the FA earlier this week. The men’s team will wear the new kits for the first time during matches against Brazil and Belgium at Wembley on 23 and 26 March.
Nike has described the redesigned flag as a “playful update” that appears on the collar to unite and inspire. The trim on the cuffs is inspired by the training gear worn by England’s 1966 World Cup winners, featuring a gradient of blues and reds topped with purple.
Critics such as Shadow Attorney-General Emily Thornberry and former UKIP leader Nigel Farage have expressed their disapproval of the new design. Thornberry finds it “a bit weird” and questions the need for changes to the original flag. Farage called it “an absolute joke” and believes that the new emblem bears no resemblance to the St George’s Cross.
The official England Store website provides details on the features of the shirts, with the most expensive one boasting lightweight, quick-drying technology for optimal comfort during play. The stadium shirt, priced at £84.99, is designed to replicate the authentic look while incorporating sweat-wicking technology.
Despite the criticism and calls for change, Nike remains firm in its decision to keep the current design. As fans eagerly wait for the Euros and the opportunity to wear the new kit, it seems that the controversial St George’s Cross design is here to stay.
Overall, the debate surrounding Nike’s St George’s Cross design on the England kit highlights the subjective nature of sports fashion. While some critics argue for a return to tradition, Nike defends its decision as a modern take on a classic. Whether fans embrace or reject this design, it is clear that football fashion will always be a topic of passionate discussion.