We have phenomenal news for kit aficionados and collectors. Adidas will release long-sleeve Authentic versions of their upcoming 2026 World Cup away kits. Huge thanks to Opaleak for the images.
Long-sleeve authentic kits (the almost exact player-issue spec shirts worn on the pitch) are highly sought after by fans but had been notoriously difficult to get ahold of at retail, with brands often opting to only sell short-sleeve authentics or long-sleeve replicas (Adidas has started to release long-sleeve authentic options for select kits of top teams, but they remain rare). For the 2026 World Cup, the Three Stripes are changing that - at least for the top nations.
Adidas Long-Sleeve Authentic Away Kits - Only for the "Elite" Nations
While the news is exciting, there is a small catch. Adidas will not be releasing long-sleeve authentic away kits for every nation in their 2026 portfolio.
As is often the case with premium product drops, this release will be strictly reserved for Adidas' "A-tier" or elite federations. The teams to receive the long-sleeve Authentic away kit retail treatment are certainly:
- Argentina
- Japan
- Mexico
- Spain
- Germany
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- Italy
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If you are a fan of "B-tier" Adidas nations (such as Scotland, Colombia, or Wales), you will probably have to settle for the short-sleeve authentic (which is available for the first time, so nothing to blame the 3 stripes here) or the standard replica versions of their away strips.
Long Sleeves Have Never Been More Back
Long-sleeve kits have experienced a massive cultural resurgence lately, both on the pitch and in streetwear.
Pricing is slightly higher than the standard short-sleeve authentic shirts, retailing at €160 / $160 / £140.
Are you a fan of long-sleeve kits? Will you be picking up an authentic long-sleeve away shirt for any of these six elite nations? Let us know in the comments below.