Better or Worse? Nike Italy 1998 World Cup Prototype Kits Revealed
Twitter user Joseph Lanza has shared an image of prototype versions of Italy's 1998 World Cup kits, showing how a seemingly innocuous change can make a big difference to the overall aesthetic.
Nike Italy 1998 Prototype Shirts
Nike's brief tenure as kit supplier to Italy produced some great shirts and some even better training and travel gear. Gli Azzurri's World Cup campaign in 1998 was the final tournament outing with Nike at the helm, and they decided to play it safe with a pair of no nonsense - although they were shiny - kits, blue with minimal white trim for the home and the inverse for the away.
The accent colour was used sparingly in each case, with just the cuffs, piping on the hemline and inner section of the collar contrasting with the base. It could have been different however, as the prototype designs in photo above show. The inside of the collar opening and the hemline piping were set on dark navy strips, while the cuffs themselves were also navy, tipped with white. This additional colouring is even more noticeable on the away shirt. The interior of the Swoosh was also navy in both cases.
The prototypes show replica versions of the kit complete with Swooshes, although Italy famously played in logo-free shirts until 1999, when Kappa took over from Nike and became the first manufacturer to have their logo grace the national team's shirts on the pitch.
In the end, the simpler two tone options were chosen. The Italian FA were very skeptical of the white collar on Nike's first home shirt for them in 1995, while they permitted some more white and gold details in 1996, but it seems they wanted at least one strictly traditional set of kits from the American brand.
Do you think Italy and Nike made the right choice in going with the plainer versions? Or do you prefer the added trim? Comment below.
Tottenham 26-27 Third Kit + Pre-Match Leaked
We have the first images of the Spurs 26-27 pre-match jersey, matching the colors of the home kit. On the lower left is a special label to celebrate the 1996 Premier era.
Mansfield Town 26-27 Away Kit Released
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Birmingham Legion 26-27 'Forged for Battle' Away Kit Released
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The Hummel Birmingham Legion 2026-27 away shirt features a distinctive naval theme, highlighted by a subtle semaphore call sign pattern integrated into the fabric. A traditional naval uniform-style collar completes the maritime aesthetic, while gold trim on the sleeves and collar references the ship's anchor wheels. An outline of the USS Alabama is also placed on the hip as a final tribute to the legendary battleship.
What do you think of Birmingham Legion FC's new 2026-27 'Forged for Battle' kit? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
Adidas Highlights 2026 World Cup Moments
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The photos emphasize Adidas' presence at the 2026 World Cup, featuring action shots and close-ups of players wearing the brand's latest boots. As the tournament progresses, Adidas continues to celebrate its sponsored athletes and their performances on the biggest stage in international football.
Oita Trinita 26-27 Home & Away Kits Released
Japanese J2 League club Oita Trinita has officially revealed its new 2026-27 home and away kits. Produced by Puma, the new shirts were launched under the slogan "Wearing Oita's pride, fighting," tying deeply into the local identity of the club.
The Oita Trinita 2026-2027 home kit features the club's traditional blue and yellow color scheme with a unique cross design. The away kit offers a contrasting alternative, while using the same design.
The new Puma Oita Trinita 2026-27 home and away jerseys are available for primary pre-sale from July 4 to July 7. Fans who order during this window are expected to receive their kits in time for the opening match of the season.
