Special Detail on the FA Community Shield Sleeve Patch

The sleeve patch worn during recent 2026 FA Community Shield match featured a unique, customized touch: the ribbon running across the shield was split into red and sky blue, representing the primary colors of Arsenal and Manchester City.

This bespoke ribbon colorway tradition first debuted at the 2015 FA Community Shield in the clash between Arsenal and Chelsea.

The only exceptions to this colored-ribbon tradition occurred in 2020 (Arsenal vs. Liverpool) and 2025 (Crystal Palace vs. Liverpool), where the ribbons on the patch were rendered in neutral white. This adjustment is believed to be the FA's standard protocol to maintain visual balance when both competing clubs share the same primary kit color (red).

Another unique scenario took place in 2021. Even though Manchester City wore their away kit against Leicester City, the patch still featured both clubs' traditional home colors. This was possible because City’s sky blue and Leicester’s royal blue possess distinguishable shades.

Big thanks to @jerseystory_vn for spotting this detail and creating the collage.