- In 25 years, Les Bleus have only had two kit manufacturers: Adidas until 2010, then Nike since 2011.
- The first star dates back to 1998, the second to 2018, following the two World Cup victories.
- The blue jersey and the rooster emblem are the two constants that span all eras.
- The 2011 "marinière" (striped shirt) and the return to royal blue in 2024 left a lasting impression.
- The 2026 jersey extends this history with a concept inspired by Liberty.
In a quarter-century, the French national team jersey has changed a lot, without ever losing its soul: the blue color and the rooster emblem. Between two kit manufacturers, two stars, and a few design daring choices, Les Bleus have written a true textile history. You will explore it, from the Adidas era to the 2026 jersey. Let's start with the major turning point, the change of kit manufacturer.
From Adidas to Nike, the major shift of 2011
For nearly forty years, Adidas clothed Les Bleus, until December 31, 2010. Then Nike took over in 2011, after winning the tender. A major turning point, which made the French national team one of the most expensive jerseys in the world.
A kit manufacturer is the brand that designs and manufactures a team's jerseys. Specifically, the transition from Adidas to Nike in 2011 changed the style, technology, and commercial image of Les Bleus' kits.
This continuity is expected to last: Nike is announced as the kit manufacturer for Les Bleus until 2034. In 25 years, fans will therefore have only known two signatures. To understand the latest, our analysis of the 2026 France jersey goes into detail.
The two stars, two important dates
The most symbolic evolution lies in two stars. The first appeared in September 1998, after the World Cup triumph at home. The second was added in 2018, after the triumph in Russia.
A well-known detail: after 2018, Nike even found itself out of stock, unable to supply enough two-star jerseys due to the high demand. A shortage that speaks volumes about the fans' attachment to this symbol.
Until 2010, the three stripes and the jerseys from the 1998 and 2000 victories. A distinctive style.
Since 2011, the "marinière", the return of royal blue, and the second star in 2018.
Jerseys that left a lasting impression
Some outfits have become iconic. The 1998 jersey, blue with a tricolor collar, remains the most legendary, that of the first title. In 2011, Nike surprised everyone with a white striped "marinière", an away jersey that became an identity object, accompanied by the phrase "our differences unite us."
More recently, Euro 2024 marked the return to a brighter royal blue, with a tricolor collar and a very visible rooster emblem, inspired by a crest from the years 1934-1966. A direction maintained for the future. And to wear these jerseys well, regardless of the era, our guide for choosing your football jersey size can help.
The rooster has adorned Les Bleus' jersey for more than 100 years. A national symbol, its design has evolved but it has never left the chest of the French team.
Sawa Football designs limited editions in France in the colors of Les Bleus, exclusive and unavailable elsewhere. Supporter pieces to stand out.
See France jerseys →What about the 2026 jersey?
The latest step in this evolution is the 2026 World Cup jersey, unveiled by Nike with a concept inspired by Liberty. Still faithful to blue and the rooster, it extends a quarter-century of history while seeking to mark a new generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which kit manufacturers have outfitted Les Bleus in the last 25 years?
Only two: Adidas until December 31, 2010, then Nike since 2011. Nike is announced as the kit manufacturer for the French team until 2034, which extends a long continuity.
When did the stars appear on the jersey?
The first star, for the 1998 World Cup title, appeared in September 1998. The second, for the 2018 triumph in Russia, was added the same year. They symbolize the two World Cups won by France.
Why is the 2011 "marinière" so well-known?
Because it surprised everyone. For its first away jersey, Nike offered a white striped "marinière," which was very distinctive, accompanied by the message "our differences unite us." It quickly became iconic.
Has the rooster always been on the jersey?
The rooster has adorned Les Bleus' jersey for over a century. Its design has evolved over the decades, but it has remained the symbol of the French team, always worn on the chest.
In 25 years, Les Bleus' jersey has changed kit manufacturers, gained a star, and dared a few bold designs, without ever betraying its blue or its rooster. This is undoubtedly the mark of great jerseys: evolving while remaining recognizable. The 2026 jersey is in this vein, and the rest is yet to be written. In the meantime, always check the origin of your jersey before buying.
