50 days until World Cup – pick your favourite kits
50 Days Until World Cup – Pick Your Favorite Kits
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup reaches 50 days, BBC Sport showcases standout kits from the tournament set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 48 teams and 104 matches spanning 16 host cities, more nations than ever will aim to make a lasting impression. Cast your vote for your preferred design at the end of this page.
Algeria: A Green Dream
The Desert Foxes are returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2014, when they were eliminated by Germany in the last 16. Their new away kit features a swirling pattern that might leave defenders scrambling as they navigate Lionel Messi’s playmaking prowess. Algeria secured their place in the final round of South American qualifiers, finishing nine points ahead of Ecuador.
Austria: A Touch of Sophistication
Austria’s debut since 1998 brings a stylish marbled away jersey, inspired by the nation’s café culture. This design hints at the elegance of its traditional settings, offering a fresh visual identity for a team making its first World Cup appearance in two decades.
Belgium: Magritte’s Influence
Belgium’s away kit draws from the surreal art of René Magritte, reflecting the unpredictable nature of their qualifying campaign. The Red Devils pulled off stunning 6-0 victories against Liechtenstein and Kazakhstan, contrasting with draws against North Macedonia and Kazakhstan. The bold design mirrors their artistic flair on the pitch.
Brazil: A Classic Return
Bringing five-time champions to the World Cup stage again, Brazil’s kit is a nod to their storied past. Despite finishing fifth in Conmebol qualifiers, losing six of 18 matches, their vibrant yellow and green home jersey promises a return to glory for the nation’s footballing tradition.
Canada: Maple Leaf Elegance
Canada’s home shirt is a tribute to their national emblem, the maple leaf. Though the co-hosts have appeared in two World Cup editions before, they’ve never advanced past the group stages. The sight of Los Cafeteros in their iconic three-stripes design may remind fans of Carlos Valderrama’s legendary role in Italia ’90.
Croatia: A Checkerboard Legacy
Croatia’s home kit revives a timeless red-and-white checkerboard motif, echoing past tournaments. Despite a population of just over four million, the Kockasti boast a strong World Cup history, including a 2018 runner-up finish and third-place results in 1998 and 2002.
Curacao: The Smallest Nation
Curacao, home to roughly 156,115 people, became the smallest country ever to qualify for a World Cup. The Caribbean island nation secured its spot as a Concacaf representative under Dutch manager Dick Advocaat, who has since stepped down.
Czech Republic: A New Chapter
The Czech Republic’s home shirt marks their return to the World Cup after 20 years. They earned qualification by defeating Denmark in a penalty shootout during the play-offs, signaling a resurgence for a team with a rich footballing heritage.
Democratic Republic of Congo: A Long-Awaited Debut
After 52 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo makes its World Cup debut, thanks to a decisive extra-time goal from Axel Tuanzebe in their intercontinental play-off final against Jamaica. Their 2025-26 home kit features a dramatic print, hinting at their ambitions for this historic campaign.
England: Muted Ambitions
England’s home jersey is a subdued design, but the Three Lions are set to make noise in this year’s tournament. Under Gareth Southgate, they reached the semi-finals in 2018 and quarter-finals in Qatar 2022. New manager Thomas Tuchel hopes this could be the year they lift a major trophy.
France: The Favourites
France’s bold presence on the field is matched by their striking kit, which will leave defenders wary of their forwards’ fluid movement. The Les Bleus were runners-up in Qatar four years ago and are once again considered top contenders for the title.
Germany: The Last Adidas Design
Germany’s 2026 home shirt will be the final one produced by native brand Adidas. Stylistically, it’s a celebration of their storied history, while also marking the end of an era for the iconic manufacturer.
Ecuador: Hope in the Stripes
Moises Caicedo and the Ecuador squad will carry the nation’s hopes into the tournament. This will be their fifth World Cup appearance, with their best result coming in 2006 when they reached the last 16.
Does anything say World Cup more than the bold yellow and green of the Selecao?
With 16 host cities and an expanded field, the 2026 tournament promises unforgettable moments. From innovative designs to historic debuts, the kits reflect the nations’ identities and aspirations as the world’s top teams gather for the global stage.