Canadian fans were hopeful that their squad would have a fantastic new look for the big tournament when it begins in Qatar, as they prepare for their country’s first World Cup since 1986.
They were let down and disappointed.
Unfortunately, Nike dashed those hopes with a statement that has many Les Rouges supporters angry with both the national team and the apparel manufacturer.
More of the same
Instead of donning a new look, like most other nations do, Canada will continue to wear the same uniforms they have been sporting for the previous year, especially for soccer’s greatest competition.
On September 15, Nike simultaneously released all of their uniforms, and in their official announcement, there was a discouraging paragraph that left Canada fans in shock.
Although the Canada uniforms are sufficiently decent, they don’t exactly excite fans in anticipation of the team’s first World Cup debut in 36 years. To begin with, they are one color, have only numbers on the front, and are topped with the Canada Soccer logo.
Other than mentioning that Canada Soccer was “on a different kit development cycle,” the Nike statement was vague as to why Canada wouldn’t be receiving a new uniform for the World Cup.
Canada Soccer is used to receiving criticism for agreements made in recent years. Players’ dissatisfaction with the national federation’s collective bargaining agreement resulted in a player strike in the fall of 2021.
Additionally, the players have already made statements regarding the uniforms.
“I’m not a fan of it, to be honest,” Canada defender Sam Adekugbe said to The Athletic. “I just feel like every team should get a new kit for the World Cup because it’s a symbolic event. I don’t hate it, but I would have liked to have gotten a new kit, just because it’s something to cherish.”
However, if Canada can advance all the way to the knockout rounds and build on their impressive qualifying record, one might think all this may not matter at all.
