Disguised Swoosh! Vini Jr Trains in Next-Gen 2026 Nike Mercurial Prototype Boots
Mar 21, 2026, by Chris
- Prototype Boots: Vinicius Junior and Federico Valverde have provided the first look at the next-generation 2026 Nike Mercurial football boots.
- Disguised Logo: Nike is using a fake chevron logo instead of the iconic Swoosh on these whiteout prototypes to mask the upcoming boots, a tactic they started in late 2025.
- Boot Variations: Vinicius Jr. tested the low-cut Nike Mercurial Vapor 17, while Federico Valverde tested the high-cut Nike Mercurial Superfly, with an expected release in the summer of 2026 featuring a pink, white, and black design.
Real Madrid superstars Vinicius Junior and Federico Valverde have given us an exciting first on-pitch look at the next-generation 2026 Nike Mercurial football boots. However, Nike has employed a clever trick to try to hide their identity.
Next-Gen 2026 Nike Mercurial Prototypes - Disguised Logo
Here is a closer look at the whiteout prototypes worn by Vinicius Jr.
In a deliberate move to mask the upcoming boots, Nike has opted not to use its iconic Swoosh on these whiteout prototypes. Instead, the brand has faked the logo, replacing it with a large, angular shape that strongly resembles a chevron (>).
This is not the first time the American sportswear giant has used this tactic. Nike started to heavily distort or alter the Swoosh on their prototype boots in late 2025, attempting to throw boot spotters and fans off the scent during early testing phases.
Vapor 17 vs. Superfly
During the training session at Valdebebas, the Real Madrid duo apparently tested the two different variations of the upcoming generation:
Vinicius Jr. laced up in the low-cut version, which will be officially known as the Nike Mercurial Vapor 17.
Federico Valverde was spotted testing the high-cut, Dynamic Fit collar version, the next-gen Nike Mercurial Superfly.
Despite the disguised whiteout look on the training pitch, we already have a glimpse of what to expect when the boots officially drop. As seen in the leaked comparison images, the launch colorway of the next-gen 2026 Mercurial is set to boast a striking pink, white, and black design.
The next-generation Nike Mercurial Vapor 17 and Superfly are set to be officially released in the summer of 2026.
What do you think of Nike using fake chevron logos to disguise their prototype boots? Are you excited for the next-gen Mercurial Vapor 17 and Superfly? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Real Madrid 26-27 New Shirt Number Owners
Real Madrid have officially confirmed their squad numbers for the 2026-27 season. Thanks to @jersey_story for the design visuals.
Raúl Asencio steps into the No. 2 shirt previously worn by Dani Carvajal, while new signing Dean Huijsen takes over No. 4 from David Alaba. Endrick also returns to the No. 9 after his loan spell at Marseille.
Among the new arrivals, Ibrahima Konaté will wear No. 16, Marc Cucurella No. 17, Carlos Espí No. 19, Denzel Dumfries No. 24 and Yan Diomande No. 25. Meanwhile, Bernardo Silva will continue wearing No. 20 following Fran García's departure. The number is closely associated with the Portuguese midfielder's most successful years at Manchester City.
Which new number catches your eye the most? Let us know your answer in the comments below.
Paris Saint-Germain Debut 26-27 Kits Featuring Two Stars
PSG debuted a two-star version of their 26-27 kits during recent friendly matches, commemorating their pair of UEFA Champions League titles. This special detail will be used exclusively in international competitions.
Despite Ligue 1 placing no restriction on star crests, PSG announced they will not feature the stars on their domestic league kits. Special thanks to @jerseystory_vn for the spot and graphic.
No More Nike: Adidas Croatia 2026 Training Kits Revealed
Following their switch from Nike to Adidas, Croatia's new training kit set for 2026 have been unveiled in the latest training camp for youth teams' goalkeepers.
However from what we've seen, both of the new jerseys are simply from Adidas Tiro 26 League template range, using default black and grey color choices. These are very likely just temporary options for the mean time, until the actual designs with probably bespoke colorways are officially released.
What do you think of the new Adidas Croatia 2026 training kits? Let us know in the comments below.
