Football fans warned to look out for fake World Cup kit and merchandise
Football fans have been warned to be vigilant about buying counterfeit kit and merchandise in the run-up to the FIFA World Cup.
It comes after Leicestershire Trading Standards officers, in partnership with police, seized a large quantity of suspected fake and potentially unsafe goods at a car boot sale in the county.
Among the items seized were 52 England football shirts and kits, including adult and children’s versions, all believed to be counterfeit.
The wider haul was made up of almost 500 items, including softs toy containing potential carcinogens, suspected counterfeit Calvin Klein underwear, Nike socks, Labubu dolls, Mario toys, Adidas bags, Apple Airpods, illegal tobacco and vapes.
In total, the goods seized would have had an estimated retail value of more than £10,500 if they had been genuine.
A man was arrested for suspected offences under the Trademarks Act following the seizure, at Measham, and was later bailed pending further investigation.
Leicestershire Trading Standards is now urging fans to think carefully before buying cut-price football kits and merchandise, particularly from unofficial sellers.
Councillor Dan Harrison, leader of Leicestershire County Council, which operates trading standards locally, said: “As excitement builds ahead of the World Cup, we know fans will be keen to show their support.
"However, if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
"Counterfeit goods may appear authentic, but they can be poorly made and, in some cases, unsafe.
“Buying fake merchandise not only risks your safety but also undercuts honest businesses that adhere to strict environmental, safety and employment laws.”
Counterfeit items are often poorly manufactured and may contain harmful dyes or toxic substances, as well as harming legitimate businesses.
The price is the first indication the kit may be fake and shirts often fail to replicate the intricate detailing of official crests.
There should be no loose threads or glue marks and fakes can have messy embroidery or logos that peel off easily
If you buy World Cup kits, check the quality of the hem and sleeve stitching and the thread colour inside the shirts as this usually matches the fabric
Authentic shirts should feel lightweight, smooth, and breathable, while fakes can feel flimsy, cheap or heavy.
Email Leicestershire.gov.uk/trading-standards to report information about the sale of counterfeit or unsafe goods.