Brazil’s Controversial Red Jersey Sparks Political Outcry Ahead of World Cup

BRASÍLIA, Brazil — The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is under fire as reports indicate plans for a red jersey for the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The announcement provoked backlash from conservative politicians and fans who deem red an anti-patriotic color associated with leftist politics.

Romeu Zema, a conservative governor, voiced his outrage by throwing a mock-up of the jersey on the ground during a public event. “Our team’s shirt will never be red – and neither will our country!” Zema declared, emphasizing his allegiance to the colors often linked to former president Jair Bolsonaro.

Flávio Bolsonaro, the politician’s son, added, “Our flag isn’t red – and it never will be,” echoing widespread sentiments among Bolsonaristas, who claim the new color is a direct affront to Brazil’s patriotic symbolism.

The uproar intensified when the CBF denied the authenticity of leaked images showing a crimson jersey, insisting they remain committed to traditional yellow and blue kits. Walter Casagrande, a former player aligned with Lula’s pro-democracy movement, labeled the potential change “idiocy,” while sports writer Paulo Vinícius Coelho criticized the move as commercially driven.

Amid widespread discontent, Galvão Bueno, a prominent TV commentator, condemned the red jersey idea as “a crime” against Brazil’s rich footballing history. However, some progressive voices, including columnist Milly Lacombe, embraced the color, associating it with revolution and change.

Senator Cleitinho Azevedo recently threatened to launch a Parliamentary Inquiry Commission against Ednaldo Rodrigues, CBF’s president, questioning the motives behind the proposed jersey change. He stated, “A Copa do Mundo é feita por seleções. As seleções são representadas por sua bandeira. A bandeira do Brasil tem vermelho?” indicating that Brazil’s uniforms should reflect the national flag.

The new red jersey, featuring black accents and a logo shift to Jordan rather than Nike, marks a departure from traditional colors, causing divisions among fans and sparking discussions on national identity and representation in sports. The CBF has yet to officially confirm the jersey’s details, with major decisions about the World Cup uniform still pending.

As Brazil approaches the World Cup and an election year, the stakes are high, raising questions not only about football jerseys but also about the politics surrounding national symbols and identity.