Nike responds to England flag row
March 23, 2024
Nike has said that it did not intend on hurting the feelings of people after it unveiled an altered design of the St George's Cross on England's soccer shirts, angering some fans.
"It was never our intention to offend, given what it means to England fans," the US sportswear giant said in a statement on Friday, Reuters reported.
"The trim on the cuffs takes its cues from the training gear worn by England’s 1966 heroes, with a gradient of blues and reds topped with purple. The same colours also feature an interpretation of the flag on the back of the collar."
With the national elections nearing, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also waded into the row, saying the national flags should not be "messed with”.
Nike said its new design pays tribute to England’s 1966 World Cup-winning men's team. It features the St. George's Cross — the sign on England’s national flag with a red sign on a white background.
However, the shirt includes shades of read, blue, and purple on the back of the shirt.
"Well, obviously, I prefer the original," Sunak told reporters. "My general view is that when it comes to our national flags, we shouldn't mess with them, because they're a source of pride, identity, who we are, and they're perfect as they are."
