Thibaut Courtois Covers Swoosh With Tape In Champions League - Here Is Why

Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid has been spotted with taped Nike goalkeeper gloves in the last Champions League match this season, we have been made aware. Let us find out why.

Champions League

Nations League - UEFA did certainly not allow this...

Thibaut Courtois Covers Swoosh With Tape To Bypass UEFA Equipment Regulations

The reason for Thibaut Courtois to hide parts of the Swoosh is not because his Nike deal is over but because of UEFA Equipment Regulations.

In Chapter X (X – Special equipment worn on the field of play), it is defined how goalkeeper gloves are allowed to look like. Article 41.01 f defines what forces Courtois to "hide" the Swoosh - the Nike logo was too big.

Nike Goalkeepers Use Gloves That Are Actually Banned By UEFA Rules

Feb 25, 2019

One manufacturer identification not exceeding 20cm² is allowed in any position on each goalkeeper glove.

Usually, Nike produces UEFA-conform goalkeeper gloves, but Courtois likely did want to wear his well-known gloves from the league instead of switching.

Courtois is wearing the Nike GK Vapor Grip 3 Promo in Pink Blast/Black/Metallic Silver.

UEFA Equipment Regulations For Goalkeeper Gloves

i. One team identification not exceeding 20cm² is allowed in any position on each goalkeeper glove.

ii. One manufacturer identification not exceeding 20cm² is allowed in any position on each goalkeeper glove.

iii. A quality seal, technology label or second manufacturer identification is allowed in any position on each goalkeeper glove. Whichever is used, it must not exceed 10cm².

iv. The name of the goalkeeper may be written in upper and/or lower case on either/both glove(s), in lettering no more than 2cm high.

Have you spotted other Nike keepers who did this in the 2020-2021 season? What do you think of this UEFA rule? Comment below, and see the full UEFA Equipment Regulations.