FIFA World Cup 2025 sparks pink shoe trend and illegal betting ads

At the 2025 FIFA World Cup, many players have adopted bright pink boots and modified compression socks. Nike and New Balance say the colour improves visibility on the pitch and may boost confidence, while cut‑out sections in the socks are claimed to ease pressure on the calves and improve circulation. Teams also use cooling vests with frozen gel packs to counter the heat in North America, and Portugal players wear memorial armbands honoring the late Diogo Jota.

Regulators in Germany have raised concerns about unlicensed betting advertising during the tournament. The platform ADI predictstreet, which operates as a peer‑to‑peer prediction market, has been seen on broadcasts—including the children's channel Kika—despite lacking a German licence. Authorities warn that such services bypass consumer‑protection rules, pose high addiction risks and lack transparency. Nine European gambling regulators have issued a joint warning about the dangers of these “prognosis markets.”