The U.S. men’s national soccer team has revealed a glimpse at their new uniforms ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup — but some fans can’t look past the Where’s Waldo and candy cane comparisons.
The kit, unveiled by U.S. Soccer and Nike, consists of two jerseys, a “stars” and a “stripes” kit.
The “stripes” kit, which features red and white wiggly stripes to mimic a waving flag, is reminiscent of the team’s first “Waldo” jersey, which was U.S. Soccer’s primary kit from 2012 until 2014.
Despite it being a familiar design, that didn’t stop fans from referencing the popular children’s puzzle books Where’s Waldo? (originally Where’s Wally? in the U.K.), with others likening the kit to a candy cane or a strip of toothpaste.
“Personally, I’m a big Where’s Waldo fan,” joked one fan, as another said: “It’s giving Where’s Waldo.”
Another dubbed the shirt the “Waldo remix.”
“Will the U.S. ever get a decent kit!?!?” complained one fan, as another chimed: “Why do we have the ugliest kit every World Cup?!?”
“Nike can’t get stripes right. It’s giving Waldo again.”
Others stayed commited to the joke, sharing Where’s Waldo memes and stills from the original book.
“The wavy stripes suck. Was really looking forward to a true Waldo kit,” added another fan. “Navy is clean but not sure about the candy cane one,” agree another.
The “stars” kit, by comparison, is a more understated look, with a navy blue design featuring subtle black stars along with red trim.
For the first time, all 27 U.S. Soccer national teams will wear the same two kits, including the four-time World Cup champion women’s national team.
Ronnie J. Stewart, global product director for Nike said both kits provide “something for everybody.”
“If you want to be loud and proud and represent the crest, no one’s going to doubt who you’re there for in the light kit,” he said. “If you’re looking for that lifestyle look that works off the field, the dark is for you.”
The kits will be seen for the first time when the USMNT takes on Belgium (March 28) and Portugal (March 31) in upcoming friendlies.
USMNT forward Folarin Balogun said that several of his teammates were keen to see the return of the red-and-white stripe look.
“I know a few of the lads said they wanted the ‘Where’s Waldo’ theme,” Balogun told reporters on a call. “And obviously when they revealed the kit, that’s exactly what they kind of did. So that was pretty cool.”
Balogun, however, said he preferred the “stealthiness” of the blue stars-themed kit.
In a press release, Nike and the U.S Soccer National Team said the stars and stripes kits represented “the pride of wearing the crest, not just for players on the field, but also for the fans who support them every step of the way.”
Dave Wright, Chief Commercial Officer of U.S. Soccer, said in a statement: “With the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup coming to the United States, we’re excited to see players across all 27 of our National Teams and supporters across the country wearing this kit as we build toward an incredible moment for the game.”
