NEW ADIDAS AWAY JERSEY WINS OVER STUDENTS AND FANS 

Akhona Maphumulo 

@akhonamaphumulo9

 

The South African Football Association (SAFA), in partnership with Adidas, has officially unveiled South Africa’s 2026/2027 away jersey before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new kit represents a continuation of the long-standing relationship between the football association and the global sportswear brand, while also introducing a refreshed visual identity for the national team.

 

Unveiled in March 2026, the design of the away jersey is inspired by both South Africa’s heritage and modern football aesthetics. The kit features a rich green base complemented by gold accents, which symbolises growth, resilience and ambition. A vertical stripe pattern gives the jersey a classic football look, while the structured collar adds a modern and refined touch. The design also incorporates elements of cultural storytelling, blending visual expressions that reflect the country’s identity while maintaining continuity with the home kit.

 

According to Adidas Football General Manager Sam Handy, the jersey represents a balance between nostalgia and innovation. It draws inspiration from past eras of football while presenting a modern look suited for the global stage. The jersey will be worn by both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana and reinforces a unified national identity across both teams.

 

The launch has already gained traction among public figures, with personalities such as Focalistic, Ronwen Williams, and Zitha Kwinika seen wearing the jersey, further boosting its popularity and appeal among fans. Following the launch, people had different opinions about the new design. While many praised the jersey for its clean and stylish appearance, others questioned its originality and affordability. However, among students, the response has been largely positive.

 

Sesethu Xaluva, a third-year Behavioural Sciences student, said, “The jersey screams international standards and has some Proteas vibes to it. I really like the jersey; Adidas never disappoints.”

 

Andile Msimango, a first-year BCom economics sciences with risk management student, expressed excitement, saying, “I’ve never been so excited by a football jersey like this. I’m definitely getting that one. That jersey is fire.”

 

Kwanele Zwane, a first-year BEd Foundation Phase student, also shared enthusiasm for the design. “Adidas cooked there; that jersey is fire. The attention to detail, the gold stripes and the white line on the collar, not to mention the green – it’s so rich. I love the Protea logo, which symbolises our country.”

 

The positive reception from students highlights the strong connection between national identity and sport, as well as the influence of design in shaping public perception. As anticipation builds toward international competitions, the new away jersey stands as both a symbol of heritage and a statement of modern South African football.

 

Adidas away jersey (Source: Adidas official). 

 

Edited by Isabel Burgers