Everton
Everton supporters expressed their discontent online following the debut of the club’s new fourth kit during their FA Cup match against Sunderland. The kit, which was worn for the first time during the 2-0 defeat, has sparked criticism not only due to the team’s early exit from the tournament but also because of the timing and nature of its release.
Everton’s club statement read: “Castore is kicking off 2026 with a new Everton kit and matchday range that celebrates Hill Dickinson Stadium’s place in one of the most iconic and revered cities in the world. The exclusive collection includes a selection of dark blue warm-up shirts and track jackets featuring an abstract design that pays homage to notable buildings from Liverpool’s famous skyline, including Hill Dickinson Stadium, the Three Graces and St Johns Beacon.”
The Everton Fan Advisory Board commented: “We’ve had lots ask if the FAB was consulted about the decision not to play in royal blue at home today. We were not. We think this decision, and the timing of launching a new range so soon after Christmas, are unacceptable. We will be raising both matters with the club.”
The Everton Fans Forum added: “To confirm the fans forum were also not consulted regarding the change of home strip in today’s game vs Sunderland.”
Natalie Bargery expressed: “Goodison was a big part of our club identity & a natural part of the moving process is going through some insecurity about who we are without GP. To wear an exploitative, non-royal blue 4th kit at home is a worse move than the people at the top would realise, I feel.”
Melanie Harvey, daughter of Everton legend Colin Harvey, remarked: “It started badly with the new kit. It carried on with empty seats for a ‘sold out’ match. It ended so predictably with three of the worst penalties I’ve seen in 45 years watching football. Oh and the 12.15 kick off. What a day.”
Matt Carey stated: “Kit looks nice… no idea why we’re wearing it at home… or how it celebrates or represents HD‘s place. Would have been pleased if this was next season’s away kit but this feels a bit like a cash grab that may backfire horrendously.”
Peter Jones declared: “Call me naive…. But what has this kit got to do with the new stadium? Apart from making money and ripping off fans. There’s nothing about the new stadium on it? 2 weeks after Christmas and halfway through the season. Madness!”
Dave McNally lamented: “Everton. Totally lost its way and what they are all about. Money over anything.”
Nik Ramsden observed: “Nice kit but not needed now. Should be a 2nd/3rd kit next season. Fans aren’t made of money. Really disappointing TBH.”
The decision to introduce a fourth kit has been met with mixed reactions, with many fans questioning its necessity given the existing kit options. Despite some positive feedback on the design, the timing of its release shortly after Christmas has been criticized as a financial burden on supporters. Additionally, the lack of consultation with fan groups has added to the discontent. A senior club insider mentioned that initial sales figures for the kit were promising, aligning with Everton’s deal with Castore, which mandates the production of four kits per season. With Premier League rules limiting clubs to three kits, Everton opted to showcase the fourth kit during the FA Cup match.
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