Like Liverpool’s white suits in 1996, or Italy at Euro 2021? How Hong Kong national team footballers got dressed for success
- Hong Kong’s stylish travelling attire this year is the brainchild of coach Jorn Andersen, who wants the players to look more professional
- ‘The ‘dress smart, play smart’ theory is nothing new, with Italy’s national team lauded for their Giorgio Armani attire when they won Euro 2021
Jorn Andersen’s bid to upgrade the outlook of the Hong Kong Football Association has extended to a heavy influence in its partnership with a fashion designer, which will supply his players with suits to wear for national team duty.
Head coach Andersen was keen for Hong Kong to show a “professional” and united front when they journeyed to the Asian Cup finals in Qatar this year.
Dressed in their sharp, matching white suits, the team and staff arrived in the Middle East “with elegance”. The “dress smart, play smart” theory is nothing new. Italy’s national team were lauded for their Giorgio Armani attire at the 2021 European Championship long before they won the tournament.
How footballers dress for the English FA Cup final at Wembley still stirs online commentary, judging by the irate reaction to Manchester City turning up for the 2023 final in their casuals.
Hong Kong performed beyond expectations in the Asian competition, despite finishing pointless from three matches. They might have upset much-higher ranked opponents but for ill fortune and controversial officiating in their first major finals since 1968.
Togetherness on the field was mirrored off it, with Andersen’s fingerprints across every aspect.
