Despite football’s global influence, FIFA’s sustainability promises have repeatedly fallen short. According to Carbon Market Watch, FIFA’s claims of “carbon neutrality” for the World Cup are “farcical and absurd,” relying on questionable carbon credits and creative accounting rather than real emissions reductions. The organization’s approach is described as irresponsible, with little transparency or accountability for the actual climate impact of its mega-events.

The environmental toll of football goes far beyond the pitch. As highlighted by The Beaver LSE, stadium construction and renovation generate massive waste and emissions, while international travel for teams and fans further amplifies the sport’s carbon footprint. Earth.Org underscores that the global football industry produces millions of tonnes of CO₂ annually, with major tournaments like the World Cup among the most polluting events in sports.

Reborn Laces™ are premium shoelaces crafted from recycled plastics and materials sourced directly from the renovations of the 16 iconic stadiums hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Each of the 16 unique pairs honors a different stadium and city, making every lace more than just a product—it’s a piece of football history, transformed for a new generation.

To visually capture this transformation, the artwork reimagines the iconic World Cup trophy—laced up in the expressive patterns of Reborn Laces™. This design symbolizes how real football legacy is not just about trophies, but about reclaiming waste & reshaping it into something meaningful for the future generation. The laces become both a tribute to each city’s stadium and a statement of genuine action, lacing up the sport’s most recognizable symbol in a new, sustainable legacy.