Fortaleza's Black Players Wear "Target" on Back as Part of Anti-Racism Campaign
Last night, Fortaleza played against Corinthians to kick off matchday 24 of Brasileiro Série A. The match itself was a dull affair since it ended in a goalless draw with the only highlights coming from 2 red cards in the last 10 minutes.
Before the match, Fortaleza send out a strong message with their campaign "Alvos do Racismo" (targets of racism) with the black players wearing targets on the back. The club wants to target systematic racism with this campaign. The campaign also points out that racial slurs of football fans are not punished under the sports law in Brazil.
Obviously, football clubs have a wide reach and can make the public aware of systematic discrimination. In addition, football clubs promote diversity and equality by literally showcasing that everybody is equal on the pitch - no matter what skin color. Nevertheless, racism is still a problem in football as almost 50% of coaches and black athletes out of Brazil's first three tiers confirmed to have been a victim of racism at one point of their career.
Marcelo Paz, Fortaleza's president, had the following the say: "Não basta não ser racista, tem que ser antirracista, tem que combater qualquer tipo de discriminação de cor - pontua Marcelo Paz, presidente do Fortaleza." (It is not enough not to be racist, you have to be anti-racist, you have to fight any type of color discrimination - points out Marcelo Paz, president of Fortaleza.)
“Fortaleza has a history of struggle, positioning itself and covering all colors. We had idols, players, coaches, blacks, whites, without any distinction, they were always embraced by the club. So we understand the importance of taking a stand with this action that was projected ”, added Fortaleza's president.
What do you think of this gesture? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below.
FC Barcelona 26-27 Home Kit Leaked - Long-Sleeve Version
Footy Headlines can now leak 2 new pictures of the Nike Barcelona 26-27 home kit. long-sleeve version. Although it is a fake, the design is identical to the real one.
It will be released soon.
Manchester United 26-27 Away Kit Leaked - Long-Sleeve Version
Footy Headlines can now leak 2 new pictures of the Adidas Man United 26-27 away kit. long-sleeve version. Although it is a fake, the design is identical to the real one.
The kit is inspired by the iconic 1988 shirt and the River Irwell.
Alexis Vega Wears Old Nike Mercurial Vapor 12 Jordan x PSG Boots
Mexican international Alexis Vega caught the attention of boot enthusiasts by lacing up in a unique pair of pink Nike Mercurial Vapor 12 Jordan x PSG boots. The Toluca forward chose the bold footwear for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, stepping onto the pitch for the inauguration scenario in a design that perfectly fits the current trend of vibrant football boots. Big thanks to @abcdefutbol.
Originally launched in 2018 as part of the highly successful collaboration between Jordan Brand and Paris Saint-Germain, the Mercurial Vapor 12 is now a rare sight in professional matches. Vega's choice of the eye-catching pink edition highlights his personal preference, with the boots reportedly being among his all-time favorites.
2026 World Cup Sleeve Badge Now Available in England Store
Most 2026 World Cup sleeve badges are currently not available for purchase separately; they are only offered as an add-on that is pre-applied to online jersey orders. However, they are now available with the England 2026 World Cup jersey and can be ordered through the team's official online store.
Viktor Gyokeres Sticks to Lucky Old-Gen Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 'Mad Ambition' Boots
Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres has developed a superstition regarding his football boots, choosing to stick with an older colorway of the Nike Mercurial Vapor 16. Despite Nike releasing several newer packs, the forward continues to wear the Mad Ambition edition. He considers this specific pair to be his lucky boots due to his prolific goalscoring form while wearing them. Big thanks to @abcdefutbol.
Interestingly, Gyokeres has been spotted testing and warming up in newer Nike Mercurial releases. However, when it comes to the actual matches, he consistently reverts to his trusted Mad Ambition Vapor 16s. This practice of wearing new boots during warm-ups but relying on a comfortable, proven pair for competitive play highlights how important gear familiarity and superstition can be for a striker.
Uruguay Requests FIFA 'Legacy' Patch for Muslera's 2026 World Cup Kit
The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) has formally requested that FIFA allow goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to wear the special 'Legacy' patch on his jersey sleeve during the 2026 World Cup. The patch is designated for players who have participated in five or more World Cup tournaments, a milestone Muslera is reaching with his inclusion in the 2026 squad.
Muslera was initially excluded from receiving the patch by FIFA because he did not register any playing time during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, despite being part of the official squad. His previous World Cup appearances came in 2010, 2014, and 2018. The AUF is now pushing for his recognition alongside other five-time tournament veterans such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Manuel Neuer, and Luka Modrić.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper is expected to start in Uruguay's opening match of the 2026 World Cup. If FIFA approves the request, Muslera's jersey will feature the 'Legacy' patch, marking his long-standing service to the national team across five different World Cup campaigns.
Spain 2026 World Cup Climacool Pre-Match Jacket Turns Heads
Spain's 2026 Climacool pre-match jacket, designed by Adidas for the 2026 World Cup, has caught the attention of fans and media alike. Worn by the players ahead of their matches in the tournament, the jacket has sparked a strong reaction online.
The Adidas Spain 2026 pre-match jacket features the usual design but with the striking, glossy Climacool look.
The Adidas Climacool 2026 World Cup Climacool jacket is not available to buy - Adidas only offers the regular version.