Euro 2024 has arrived, offering a delightful array of football kits to admire. Euronews Culture presents its list of the most visually appealing jerseys.
My editor informs me, “The Euros will begin at the end of this week. Can you write an article on it?” I pause, resembling a perplexed giraffe tasked with opening a bank account. “You do understand that my expertise in football is akin to a chicken explaining gravity?” I reply, acknowledging my excessive use of animal analogies and contemplating a mental evaluation. Nevertheless, I agree to the task.
To be honest, my interest in football is limited to the Euros and the World Cup. It’s fascinating to see how passionate people become about their national teams and how the stadiums are filled with both cheers and tears during the summer evenings.
The only thing that caught my attention was the jerseys the players would be wearing this year. I was excited to see which of the 24 European teams would have the most stylish kits on the field. And I must say, I wasn’t disappointed.
With the tournament kicking off today in Germany, I present to you my countdown of the best jerseys that bring together sports fans and fashion enthusiasts in perfect harmony. And this year, it’s the away shirts that are stealing the show…
6. Germany
Germany has excelled this year with a classic design for their home shirt and a more contemporary one for their away gear. The first features the traditional white, black, red, and gold color scheme, along with a gradient flame effect on the shoulders. Despite making headlines earlier this year for the wrong reasons, it remains very stylish.
The second design, my personal favorite, incorporates pink and purple hues that offer a modern and diverse look appealing to the new generation of fans. As Adidas is set to be replaced by Nike as the official supplier for Die Mannschaft after three decades, they have certainly taken a bold approach with their final design. Well done!
5. England
The release of the England away shirt received significant criticism due to the alteration of St. George’s cross on the kit. This modification was seen as immature and unattractive, further emphasized by the bold departure from traditional design. However, the choice of raisin-color is appealing, the golden crest adds a touch of elegance, and the purple-blue-beige accents on the sides are truly impressive.
4. Ukraine
The simplicity of both Ukraine’s home and away kits is truly striking. Upon closer inspection of the away kit, one can spot the Ukrainian border subtly depicted in the background. This detail holds significant power, especially in light of Russia’s current invasion.
3. Belgium
The team’s home kit highlights the players’ nickname of the Red Devils/Red Flames with its traditional red color. However, their away kit this year is a perfect blend of culture and geekiness, paying homage to Belgian cartoonist Hergé and his adventurous reporter Tintin.
The away kit consists of a blue jersey with a white collar, brown shorts, and white socks. Despite the unconventional combination, it surprisingly works exceptionally well.
To complete the genius, all that’s left is for the team to step onto the pitch accompanied by Fox Terriers named Snowy. Perhaps other teams should take note – France could use an outfit inspired by Asterix.
2. Portugal
This Nike kit, which is the final one for Portugal, will be replaced by PUMA next year. Nevertheless, it serves as a remarkable farewell. The design of the kit beautifully acknowledges the nation’s traditional ceramics, featuring a faux-worn print of a blue mosaic tile graphic. It is both captivating and understated, serving as a fitting tribute to the country’s artistic heritage.
1. France
The French team’s home and away kits this year are truly impressive, featuring an enlarged Gallic rooster crest in a stylish retro design. The away kit, in particular, stands out with its chic pinstripe that subtly transitions through the colors of the national flag. While some may find it reminiscent of pajamas, it undeniably has a certain charm.
There is a slight risk of people making jokes about the comically sized cockerel, poking fun at the French for overcompensating. Nevertheless, it remains my top choice for this year’s Euro kits. Well done, gentlemen!
