Cape Verde Football Shirts & Jerseys

Kit Detail & Heritage – A Look Back at Cape Verde’s Most Memorable Shirts

The Cape Verde national team, affectionately known as Tubarões Azuis (The Blue Sharks), has steadily built its football identity since gaining FIFA membership in 1982. Their kits mirror the vibrancy of the islands — bold blue, white, and red accents that symbolise pride and unity.

Famous Cape Verde Shirts Through the Years

2013 AFCON Debut Kit – The first time Cape Verde qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations, they wore a striking blue design with a diagonal white sash, produced by Adidas. It became an instant symbol of national pride as the team reached the quarter-finals in their debut appearance.

2017 Macron Home Shirt – A modern interpretation of the Blue Sharks’ classic colours, featuring a clean, minimalist look with red sleeve details and a bold white star motif representing the nation’s ten islands.

2021 AFCON Kit by Adidas – Blending tradition and innovation, this design used a darker navy tone with subtle graphic waves across the torso — a nod to Cape Verde’s Atlantic roots and fluid attacking play.

2024 Relaunch by Adidas – The latest kits balance modern technical fabrics with classic coastal tones. The home shirt embraces ocean blue with thin red trims, while the away design brings a crisp white contrast for a timeless finish.

Legends Who Wore the Cape Verde Shirt

While still emerging on the global stage, Cape Verde has produced standout talents who’ve taken their national pride to major European leagues:

• Ryan Mendes – prolific winger and key figure in Cape Verde’s AFCON runs.
• Nuno Rocha – midfield engine known for creativity and work rate.
• Heldon Ramos – remembered for his decisive goals and leadership during Cape Verde’s breakthrough years.
• Djaniny – the powerful forward whose flair and finishing have earned him international recognition.

Each player has helped shape Cape Verde’s identity - a blend of island resilience, creativity, and passion that shines through every kit.

Who Makes the Cape Verde Kit?

Over the years, Cape Verde has worked with several suppliers, each helping define a new chapter of its football story:

• Adidas – The current kit partner, responsible for modernised, lightweight designs and subtle maritime motifs.

• Macron – Produced kits through much of the 2010s, introducing tailored cuts and cleaner patterns.

• Tempo Sport – An earlier domestic brand known for simple designs during the team’s formative years.

Each manufacturer has brought its own vision - from early grassroots kits to the performance-driven designs of today.

Cape Verde’s Tournament Journey

Cape Verde’s rise in African football is one of the continent’s most inspiring stories. After making their AFCON debut in 2013, the Blue Sharks returned in 2015, 2021, and 2023, consistently earning admiration for their attacking style and fearless energy.

While the nation has yet to feature at a FIFA World Cup, their performances in AFCON qualifiers and continental competitions have marked them as one of Africa’s most promising emerging sides. Their journey represents the pride of a small nation making big waves on the international stage.

Cape Verde Kit Evolution: From Grassroots to Global

Cape Verde’s kits have evolved from locally-produced designs to globally recognised sportswear statements.

Early versions were simple, made for durability and accessibility, but modern editions showcase premium lightweight fabrics, breathable materials, and advanced printing techniques. The national crest — with its circular star design — now features in embossed or embroidered finishes across both match and fan editions.

From grassroots beginnings to international tournaments, every iteration tells a story of progress and pride — and each new release honours the islands’ culture and the ocean that connects them.

Personalise Your Cape Verde Shirt

Add a personal touch to your Blue Sharks shirt with custom name & number printing. Choose a national hero like Mendes or Djaniny, or make your own mark with your name and favourite number. Our in-house printing ensures authentic fonts and lasting quality — just as seen on the official player shirts.