FIFA World Cup, fake football jerseys worth over £18M seized

British authorities have seized counterfeit football jerseys and other fake merchandise worth more than £18 million during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to officials, demand for fake jerseys surged during the tournament. However, authorities warned that these products are not only illegal but may also pose serious safety risks.

As part of Operation Blockswitch, the Police Intellectual Property Office (PIPCU) recovered more than 220,000 counterfeit football-related items across the UK.

During a raid on a warehouse in Birmingham, officers seized 1,618 fake jerseys, including counterfeit shirts bearing the names of star players such as Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.

Officials said the dyes and materials used in counterfeit jerseys could be harmful, particularly to children’s skin.

Tests conducted by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service also found that fake jerseys are far more flammable than genuine kits and can melt quickly when exposed to fire.

Experts have warned that consumers who buy counterfeit products because of their lower prices may unknowingly fund organized criminal networks. They also noted that such products do not meet required health and safety standards.