Wembley Stadium Foundation opens free Nike kit scheme for grassroots youth clubs across the UK

Grassroots youth football clubs across the United Kingdom can now apply for free, fully customised Nike kits through the Wembley Stadium Foundation National Kit Scheme, a national initiative run in partnership with Team Grassroots.

With the cost of running local clubs rising year on year, kit expenses remain one of the most significant financial obstacles for community teams and their families. The scheme directly targets that burden by providing brand-new kits tailored to each club’s colours, player sizing, and official badge — at no cost to the club.

The programme prioritises new and emerging teams applying for their first full playing kit, particularly in cases where cost has prevented players from taking part. Organisers say thousands of kits are available nationwide and are urging coaches, managers, and club secretaries to submit applications as soon as possible.

Paul Kirton, founder of Team Grassroots, highlighted that seasonal kit replacement is a recurring financial strain for many clubs, making initiatives like this critical to the long-term survival of youth football at community level.

Beyond the practical relief, the scheme is designed to foster a sense of identity and pride among young players — something organisers argue is just as important as the kit itself for encouraging continued participation in the sport.