Netherlands criticised for orange kit after Japan match

The Netherlands national team played Japan and, after just one match, fans have already flooded social media with criticism of the all‑orange kit. Viewers said the uniform made the players appear as a single orange mass on television during the live broadcast.

The backlash focused on the kit rather than the football itself. Supporters highlighted that the bright orange shirts, shorts and socks together created a visually jarring effect.

Many fans complained that the players were difficult to tell apart and that shirt details vanished on screen. Broadcast technician Arnold van den Ham explained, "Our eyes can distinguish more colours than televisions can show."

He added that "on image colours are also 'clipped', causing details in the shirt to disappear." "Instead of folds, shadows and texture you see one big orange plane," he said.

The criticism extended to the shorts and socks, which share the same vivid hue as the shirts. Supporters argued that greater contrast between these elements would enhance visibility for viewers.

Social media users quickly coined jokes comparing the ensemble to "traffic cones" and a "fluorescent wall." The kit has become one of the most talked‑about subjects surrounding the Netherlands, and it remains to be seen whether the Dutch football association will respond.