Nike’s AI-Designed World Cup Jerseys Criticized for Strange Bulges and Poor Fit

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches—set to take place across North America—fans and players are already facing a series of controversies, from skyrocketing ticket prices to chaotic airport security. Now, Nike’s latest collection of AI-assisted World Cup jerseys has become the latest source of outrage.

The newly unveiled kits, designed for national teams including France, England, the US, and Uruguay, have drawn sharp criticism for their bizarre and misshapen shoulder seams. Instead of a sleek, form-fitting look, the jerseys feature unnatural bulges near the shoulders, giving players an awkward, oversized appearance. Even France’s superstar Kylian Mbappé was seen wearing a jersey with these flaws during recent matches.

The most egregious example came during Uruguay’s game against England, where captain Federico Valverde appeared to be wearing a jersey three sizes too small, with the fabric bunching unnaturally around his shoulders.

How AI May Have Played a Role in the Design Flaws

Nike has long manufactured kits for top national teams, but this year’s designs reportedly incorporated AI technology under the brand’s new “Aero-FIT” initiative. According to marketing materials, the system “leverages computational design and a highly specialized, stitch-specific knitting process” to enhance athlete performance in hot conditions.

A source familiar with the process told The Guardian that Nike used AI tools in collaboration with human designers, raising the possibility that an AI algorithm contributed to the flawed final product. Nike has not yet explained how the issue occurred.

“During the recent international break, we observed a minor issue with our Nike national team kits, most noticeable around the shoulder seam. Performance is unaffected, but the overall aesthetic is not where it needs to be.”

— Nike spokesperson, speaking to The Guardian

Fans React to the Poor-Quality Jerseys

The design flaws have not only affected players but also fans who spent up to $200 on the jerseys. Social media erupted with complaints about the poor quality and unflattering fit. One Reddit user wrote, “The way the shoulders are sewn together just makes them bunch like this no matter what. This is a stupid, STUPID design.”

With the World Cup just months away, millions of these jerseys have already been sold or distributed to national teams. It remains unclear whether Nike will issue a recall or make corrections before the tournament begins.