What must a footballer wear?
Officials' detail · The pitch, the goal, the ball and the kit · 4 of 4Every player must wear a shirt with sleeves, shorts, socks, shinguards and footwear. Nothing dangerous may be worn. Since 2026/27, accessories are allowed if they are not dangerous and are safely and securely covered; the old blanket ban on jewellery has gone. Political, religious or personal slogans are not allowed on kit.
How it works
- Compulsory: shirt with sleeves, shorts, socks, shinguards (covered by the socks) and footwear.
- Tape on socks must match the colour of the part it covers.
- The two teams wear colours that differ from each other and the officials; each goalkeeper differs from everyone.
- Undershirts match the sleeve colour; undershorts or tights match the shorts.
- Soft protective items are allowed: gloves, headgear, face masks, knee and arm protectors, sports glasses.
- Head covers must be black or the main shirt colour, not attached to the shirt and not dangerous.
- Players may not wear or use electronic communication equipment. Approved tracking devices are allowed.
- No political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images, including on undergarments.
- A player with a kit problem is told to leave and fix it at the next stoppage, and returns only with the referee's permission.
Tricky cases
Are shin guards compulsory?
Yes. They must give reasonable protection and be covered by the socks. The player is responsible for their size and suitability.
Can a player wear a ring or earrings?
It depends on whether the item is dangerous. Since 2026/27, an accessory that is not dangerous may be worn if safely and securely covered. A dangerous item must come off, not be taped.
A player lost a boot and then scored. Does the goal count?
Yes. A boot or shinguard lost by accident must be replaced no later than the next time the ball goes out of play, and a goal scored before then counts.
Can a player lift their shirt to show a message?
No. Slogans on undergarments are not allowed, and the competition can sanction the player or team.
Why the rule exists
The kit rules protect players, make the teams and officials easy to tell apart and keep political and commercial messages off the field.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All football under the Laws from 1 July 2026 | Accessories allowed if not dangerous and covered; previously all jewellery was banned | L4.1; Law changes 2026/27 |
| Competitions | Can add limits on slogans, logos and advertising | L4.5 |
From the rule book
IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 4, in force from 1 July 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: IFAB Laws of the Game (PDF).