Written by Gill Princen

The Japan national football team has presented their new 2024 home, away, and goalkeeper kits, created in collaboration with renowned designer Yohji Yamamoto and Adidas under the Y-3 label. These kits, featuring a striking flame motif, reflect the "unwavering strength of the Japan National Football Team and the mysterious power of Japan."

The home kit marks a return to a deep navy base, a significant departure from the brighter blues seen in recent years. This darker shade, reminiscent of the kits worn during Japan's first World Cup qualification in 1998, is adorned with a bold blue flame graphic that stretches from the lower front to the left shoulder. The Y-3 and Japan football crest logos are centrally placed, adding a modern touch to this nostalgic design.

The away kit contrasts sharply with a "Clear White" base accented by a red flame graphic that burns prominently on the right side. This design is mirrored in the shorts and socks, maintaining a cohesive and stylish appearance. The goalkeeper kit stands out in a vibrant Matcha green, featuring a flame pattern that flows from the back to the front, ensuring it is as dynamic as its counterparts.

These kits are more than just match-day attire; they are part of a broader collection that includes pre-match jerseys, a reversible souvenir jacket, and other themed items. The on-pitch designs were made available in a limited pre-launch on June 22, with the full collection set to release on July 1 through adidas.

Yohji Yamamoto, who has previously collaborated with Real Madrid on a notable fourth kit featuring a floral design, brings his distinctive aesthetic to Japan's national team for the first time. This collaboration coincides with Japan's preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, enhancing the excitement around the "Samurai Blue" as they aim for gold.

The introduction of these kits has been met with enthusiasm, blending historical elements with contemporary fashion, and solidifying Yamamoto's influence in the realm of football kit design.