Staffordshire County Council has issued a warning to football fans across Stafford and the wider region about the dangers of counterfeit football shirts ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Trading Standards are urging supporters to avoid fake jerseys being sold at car boot sales, markets and online, as these items pose both health and safety risks to buyers.
Counterfeit football shirts skip the rigorous safety checks that genuine versions undergo, leaving buyers exposed to poor quality materials and potentially harmful toxins from cheap dyes. Beyond the shoddy stitching and inferior construction, fake shirts have strong links to organised crime gangs. Every counterfeit purchase directly funds serious criminal activity affecting communities across Stafford and Staffordshire.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, emphasised the importance of making smart shopping choices. "If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is—and it's probably fake," he said. The council is urging fans to purchase from reputable retailers instead and help protect their local community.
Residents in Stafford who spot suspected counterfeit goods can report them to Trading Standards online or by calling 01785 330356. By reporting suspicious sellers, locals can help crack down on fake merchandise and the criminal networks behind them. This World Cup season, authentic shirts from legitimate retailers remain the safest option for supporters.