Why Football Players Exchange Shirts After The Match?

If you are just into football, or we mean soccer, you may wondering why the players mostly do exchange their match-worn shirt or we may call it as shirt-swapping. Well, it is not a new tradition, since it is done starting from 1931.

Yes, it is pretty old. But it works!

Football players exchange shirts after matches as a gesture of mutual respect and sportsmanship. This tradition allows athletes to acknowledge each other's efforts and provides a tangible memento from the game. The practice is believed to have originated in 1931 when France secured their first-ever victory over England and requested the English players' shirts as souvenirs. 

Over time, shirt swapping has become a cherished custom in football, symbolizing admiration and camaraderie between opponents. Notable instances include the 1970 FIFA World Cup, where legends Pelé and Bobby Moore exchanged jerseys, highlighting the deep respect between the two players.

While commonly associated with football, the tradition of exchanging jerseys has also been adopted in other sports, such as American football and basketball, further emphasizing its role in promoting respect and unity among athletes.

So, it may answer your question. Also, you are not wondering anymore about the price of shirt from shirt-swapping right? It is beyond expensive but it is the most worth it collectible items for football enthusiast.