The Paris Olympics have officially kicked off, and the world is watching. But amidst the athletic feats and global competition, there’s a story unfolding that’s as much about culture as it is about sport: the stunning team kits. While the banter of which team has the best uniforms still trends everywhere from X to the fashion bibles, we would like to turn our gaze on the stunning African team kits.
A new generation of African designers are boldly stamping their mark on the world’s biggest sporting stage with their designs. Collaborations between Olympic committees and Black-owned brands like LABRUM, Actively Black, and IGC Fashion have ignited a cultural phenomenon, sparking conversations from the bustling streets of Lagos to the chic avenues of Paris.
See ahead, for the best African team kits for this year’s Olympics.
Sierra Leone
In a bold collaboration with LABRUM and Adidas, the West African nation has unveiled a uniform that’s as much a fashion statement as it is athletic wear.
Iconic cowrie shells, symbols of strength, are reimagined in a modern, deconstructed style, set against a rich blue backdrop. The result? A kit that’s not just high-performance, but a celebration of Sierra Leonean heritage that’s turning heads on and off the track.
Nigeria
Nigeria’s Olympic look is a sleek fusion of tradition and modernity. Actively Black has crafted a collection that’s as comfortable as it is culturally rich. The kit cleverly blends classic athleisure with iconic Nigerian silhouettes like the senator suit and buba dress.
With a minimalist approach that’s both bold and understated, the brand has managed to capture the essence of Nigeria in a contemporary, wearable way. The subtle play on the national colors adds a sophisticated touch to the overall design.
South Africa
South Africa’s Olympic kit is a minimalist masterpiece. In collaboration with Mr Price, the team’s look is a clean, timeless aesthetic inspired by the country’s natural beauty. Subtle pops of South Africa’s iconic green and gold are woven into the white and green tracksuits, creating a uniform that’s both sporty and sophisticated.
This understated elegance is set to make a strong impression on the world stage
Egypt
Egypt’s Olympic kit is a modern interpretation of classic elegance. Designed in collaboration with Concrete, an Egyptian menswear brand, the uniforms blend traditional Egyptian motifs with contemporary style.
Highlighting premium Egyptian cotton, the kit offers a sophisticated look that pays homage to the country’s rich heritage while maintaining a sleek, athletic aesthetic.
Morocco
Designed in collaboration with Spanish sportswear brand Kelme, the Morocco uniforms showcase the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. With a color palette inspired by the country’s stunning landscapes, the kit features intricate patterns and details that pay homage to Moroccan craftsmanship. The result is a bold, eye-catching look that reflects the spirit of the Moroccan athletes.
