The US men's national team has unveiled new kits for the 2026 World Cup, designed in close collaboration with players after widespread dissatisfaction with the 2022 uniforms. The Stars Kit and Stripes Kit were revealed during a team meeting in Austin, Texas, drawing enthusiastic reactions from players including Diego Luna, Weston McKennie, and Timothy Weah.
The design process began after players revolted against the 2022 kits, which they described as 'unimaginative' and 'ice-dyed'. Midfielder Tyler Adams recalled that some players refused to be photographed in the old kits, leading to a conditional agreement: players would be heavily involved in the design cycle for 2026.
Nike executives met with players in November 2023 to gather input. Interviews focused on what the shirts should represent, with players like Weston McKennie emphasising legacy and tradition, and Sergiño Dest speaking about freedom and being 'without limits'. The resulting designs feature bold patterns and a goalkeeper kit inspired by Jorge Campos's 1994 World Cup look.
Nike designer Yaz Rosete noted the iterative process: 'We met them in person multiple times... The best thing the players could do is just give us that rawness.' The kits are widely considered the best the US has ever worn at a World Cup.
