- Nike Reverses Decision Amid Fan Backlash
- Replica Outfield Player Uniforms Available, Excluding Earps
- Limited Quantity Goalkeeper Jerseys to be Sold for Future Tournaments
Nike reversed its controversial decision in response to criticism from football fans and England’s ace custodian Mary Earps.
Nike has created a limited amount of Mary Earps’ World Cup outfits in response to popular anger.
The replica uniforms of outfield players have been made available for purchase, excluding Earps.
Over 73,000 individuals have signed a petition urging Nike to reverse course.
The company acknowledged the “unprecedented passion and interest in women’s football this year”.
The statement continued, “We acknowledge that during the tournament we were unable to accommodate fans who wished to show their passion and support for the goalkeepers.”
Nike continued, “Limited quantities of custodian jerseys for England, the United States, France, and the Netherlands will be sold via the federation websites in the coming days.”
It has not yet been determined how many garments will be available or when they will go on sale.
Additionally, it is “committed to retailing women’s goalkeeper jerseys for future major tournaments.”
Earps commented on the controversy earlier this week when Nike issued a statement saying it was “committed to women’s football” despite the jerseys not being available for purchase.
The manufacturer also stated, “We hear and understand the desire for a retail version of a custodian jersey, and we are working on solutions for future tournaments.”
Earps, 30 years old, replied on Instagram, “@Nike, is this your version of an apology/accepting responsibility/a resolute declaration of intent?”
Before the World Cup, Earps stated that the absence of a replica garment sent a “terrifying message to goalkeepers worldwide that they are unimportant.”
She continued, “[Children] will ask their parents for a Mary Earps shirt.” And they will respond, “I can get you an Alessia Russo 23, or Rachel Daly 9.”
“So, what you’re saying is that goaltending is unimportant, but you can be a forward if you like.”
Earps participated in every second of England’s World Cup events and saved a penalty against Spain in the championship match.
She was awarded the Golden Glove as the tournament’s best custodian.
