How World Cup football jerseys became political fashion in Latin America

In Brazil and Colombia, far-right leaders have sought to associate themselves with the national football jersey to project patriotism. In Brazil, the yellow jersey became linked to Jair Bolsonaro, and his son Flavio called it 'Bolsonaro's jersey' during the 2026 World Cup. In Colombia, President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella used the jersey in his campaign. Collector Paulo Duarte laments this politicization, while sociologist Bryan Clift notes that national symbols are a source of tension.