Croatia unveil new kit inspired by historic 1990 match ahead of FIFA World Cup

(Photo: HNS)

The Croatian Football Federation has officially unveiled the new national team kits which the Vatreni will wear at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Created in partnership with technical sponsor Nike, the new kits draw inspiration from one of the most symbolic moments in Croatian football history, the match against the United States in 1990.

That match, played shortly before Croatia declared independence, marked the national team’s first appearance in the modern era and remains a powerful symbol of pride, unity and patriotism. These themes have been woven into the design of the new kits, HNS said.

Croatian Football Federation president Marijan Kustić said the historical reference adds special significance to the new look.

“The new kit has a strong connection to the historic match against the USA, which carries great symbolic value,” Kustić said. “Last year we marked 35 years since that unforgettable game, and this year the United States is one of the World Cup hosts. It is important to preserve the memory of those moments, matches and people who created the history of Croatian football. I am sure players and fans will wear this kit with pride.”

The home kit features Croatia’s famous red-and-white chequered pattern in a more refined and smaller format. The design is inspired by the original 1990 shirt but has been adapted for the demands of the modern game.

(Photo: HNS)

The away kit introduces a dark blue design with subtle tonal chequers, creating a strong and elegant visual identity that complements the home strip.

(Photo: HNS)

Croatia captain Luka Modrić said wearing the national shirt remains one of the greatest honours for any Croatian footballer.

“Even though I have been lucky enough to wear the most beautiful shirt in the world 194 times, it is still a special moment every time,” Modrić said. “This design reminds me strongly of the 1990 kit and those historic scenes when the story of the Croatian national team truly began. It is inspiring and reminds us of the players who laid the foundations for today’s success.”

(Photo: HNS)

Modrić added that the shirt combines modern performance with Croatia’s unmistakable identity.

“The kit is modern, light and comfortable for playing, but most importantly it keeps what matters most – the recognisable Croatian chequered pattern. We will wear it with great pride.”

A special detail inside the shirt carries the word “Obitelj”, meaning “Family”, symbolising the bond between the national team, supporters and the wider Croatian nation.

The kits also feature Nike’s Aero-FIT technology, designed to provide improved ventilation and temperature control during matches. Advanced materials and recycled components are also used, reflecting a more sustainable approach to sportswear production.

Supporters can purchase the new shirts through the Croatian Football Federation’s official online store and at Sport Vision outlets. For the first time, fans will also be able to buy the goalkeeper kit alongside the home and away versions.

The red-and-white home kit will make its on-pitch debut on 26 March in Croatia’s match against Colombia. The dark blue away kit will be worn for the first time on 31 March when Croatia face Brazil.