Four shirts have torn since the 2026 World Cup kicked off, and every single one came from the same maker: Puma. In three of those cases the player had to leave the pitch to change into a replacement. Good news for England fans — the Three Lions are kitted out by Nike, so they are not caught up in this fault. But what exactly is going wrong with shirts ripping mid-match?
Why do some World Cup 2026 shirts keep tearing?
Shirts keep tearing because all four recorded incidents involve jerseys made by Puma, according to BBC Sport senior journalist Daniel Austin. Since the tournament began, four players have had their shirts ripped in open play, and in three cases they had to go off and change.
The trend stands out because it affects one manufacturer alone. A lighter fabric, designed for performance and breathability, can give way more easily in a tussle or when the shirt is pulled. Puma has not yet confirmed an official cause, but the issue has become one of the talking points of this World Cup.
Are England affected by the torn World Cup shirts?
No, England are not affected. The Three Lions are supplied by Nike, while all four torn shirts belong exclusively to sides kitted out by Puma, including Morocco, whose midfielder was one of those caught out.
For England fans, the chance of seeing Harry Kane or Jude Bellingham forced to swap shirts mid-match is low. The kit deal between the FA and Nike keeps England clear of this specific fault seen on the Puma jerseys.
What other records define the 2026 World Cup?
Beyond torn shirts, the 2026 World Cup has been defined by a rise in late goals, red cards, long balls and even TV adverts during water breaks. All of these metrics are changing the shape of the tournament.
The trend of shirts ripping adds to this list of unusual statistics. It has fuelled conversation among supporters, who now watch the durability of the jerseys on players’ backs almost as closely as the football itself.
FAQ
How many shirts have torn at the 2026 World Cup?
Four shirts have torn since the tournament began, all made by Puma. In three of those cases, the player had to leave the pitch to change into a replacement.
Which brand makes the torn shirts?
All four torn shirts were made by Puma. No jersey from another supplier such as Nike or Adidas has been affected so far.
Do England wear Puma shirts?
No, England are supplied by Nike. That means the Three Lions are not subject to the tearing seen on the Puma jerseys.
Has Puma explained the cause of the tears?
Puma has not yet confirmed an official cause. Observers point to a lighter fabric that may give way in challenges or when the shirt is pulled.
What other records define the 2026 World Cup?
The tournament has seen a rise in late goals, red cards and long balls. Torn shirts add to these unusual trends.
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