With the release of the new MLS kits for the 2026 season, soccer fans are buzzing with excitement over the fresh designs. Each of the 30 teams has unveiled their unique jerseys, many of which pay tribute to cultural landmarks, historical icons, and social causes. Some kits are inspired by the cities’ musical legacies, like St. Louis City SC’s homage to Tina Turner or San Jose Earthquakes’ Grateful Dead tribute, while others take cues from the natural landscapes surrounding cities like Austin FC and Seattle Sounders.
However, not all kits are created equal. For Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports soccer analyst and host of the "Alexi Lalas' State of the Union Podcast," only five stand out. One of his top picks is the "July Fourth Kit" by the New England Revolution—a fitting choice given his ties to the club. Let’s take a closer look at his favorite designs of the 2026 MLS season.
5) Philadelphia Union ('1776' Kit): A Nod to American History
Details:
Philadelphia Union’s ‘1776’ kit celebrates the city’s pivotal role in the birth of the United States, honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary. The design draws inspiration from the city’s historic architecture, documents, and symbols, incorporating the iconic Liberty Bell, a dollar bill, and the Constitution. The jersey features a "1776" jock tag and the club’s “Join or Die” emblem.
Alexi's Take:
“It's a little understated for me. But it features all the symbols of 1776—the Liberty Bell, the dollar bill, and the Constitution. It’s very much tied to the name, though I would’ve liked it to be a bit bolder. Still, it’s a respectable tribute to the birthplace of America.”
4) Orlando City SC ('Sunken Treasure' Kit): A Golden Tribute to the Sea
Details:
Orlando City’s ‘Sunken Treasure’ kit takes inspiration from Florida’s rich coastline and the legendary 1715 Treasure Fleet. The gold jersey, paired with purple accents, marks the club’s first-ever predominantly gold design, evoking the allure of shipwrecks and deep-sea exploration.
Alexi's Take:
“If you look closely, you can see a lion embedded in the background, which is a neat touch. The gold color really pops with the yellow and purple accents. It’s a flashy and bold look that works for Orlando.”
3) Red Bull New York ('Rooted' Kit): Bold and Powerful
Details:
Red Bull New York’s ‘Rooted’ kit embraces the club’s black and red palette while symbolizing the foundation the team has built since its inception as one of the original MLS teams. The kit also nods to the team’s roots in the city, with design elements that resemble veins and electrical wires, capturing the club’s energy.
Alexi's Take:
“To me, it looks like veins and electricity. It's bold, vibrant, and instantly recognizable. While it’s meant to symbolize roots, it gives off a powerful energy—something that stands out. I like that it screams for attention.”
2) Atlanta United ('Spirit of 96’ Kit): A Tribute to the Olympics
Details:
Atlanta United’s ‘Spirit of 96’ kit marks the 30th anniversary of the city hosting the Summer Olympics. Featuring nostalgic colors and energy, the kit’s design draws from the Olympic spirit, with a gold crest symbolizing victory. The design pays homage to the 1996 Games, celebrating the city’s role in one of the most memorable events in American history.
Alexi's Take:
“Philadelphia has ‘1776’, and Atlanta chose to celebrate the Spirit of ‘96—the year they hosted the Olympics. The color scheme and logo are designed to resemble a gold medal, which is a brilliant reference. It’s a clean, classy kit that’s easy to appreciate.”
1) New England Revolution ('Independence Day' Kit): A Patriotic Tribute
Details:
The ‘Independence Day’ kit by New England Revolution is the ultimate celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Inspired by patriotic bunting and July 4 fireworks, the jersey features Heritage Tree details and an "Est. 1776" sign-off. The design honors New England’s role in the nation’s founding and is a bold tribute to the country’s history.
Alexi's Take:
“If any team recognized what was in the palm of its hand with the 250th birthday, it would be the New England Revolution. Their ‘July Fourth’ kit is pure fireworks. They leaned right into it—celebrating the greatest country in the world with vibrant color and energy. This kit has the spark and fire that the country deserves on our birthday.”
These five kits show the creativity and passion that MLS teams bring to their designs, whether paying homage to history, honoring local culture, or celebrating important causes. Which kit stands out to you this season?
