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SportsUS CBP seizes over 445,000 counterfeit World Cup items, Messi jerseys top list
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During the 2026 World Cup, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized over 445,000 counterfeit World Cup-related items nationwide, causing an estimated $32 million in industry losses. The most seized items were fake Lionel Messi jerseys, according to New York Customs head Frank Russo. A special operation called 'Final Whistle' targeted counterfeit sales and transportation. Temporary stalls near Times Square sold fake Argentine jerseys for $30-$40, compared to $110 for official Adidas versions. New York alone accounted for 65,000 seizures, while Miami and Houston seized 16,000 and 12,000 items respectively. Toronto, Canada, also seized about 16,000 items. U.S. Customs noted that 60-70% of counterfeit goods shipped to the U.S. originate from China, and enforcement aims to prevent profits from flowing into organized crime. Separately, UK law enforcement seized 58,000 fake World Cup jerseys in Scotland valued at £5.5 million, a local record.
Source report
Hupu, July 25 — According to The Athletic, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized more than 445,000 World Cup-related counterfeit goods nationwide during the 2026 World Cup, including a large number of fake football jerseys. Authorities estimate that these illegal goods caused approximately $32 million in losses to the industry.
Special Operation "Final Whistle"
Before the World Cup final, U.S. law enforcement launched a special operation called "Final Whistle," targeting the sale and transportation of counterfeit goods. Frank Russo, head of New York Customs and Border Protection, revealed that the most seized items were Messi jerseys.
"We found a large number of Messi jerseys, especially when he performed well. Generally speaking, the more popular the player, the more counterfeit goods related to them."
Street Sales vs. Official Pricing
During the World Cup, many temporary stalls near New York's Times Square sold Argentina jerseys for $30 to $40, while the official Adidas version cost around $110. Reports indicate that many fans admitted to buying low-cost knockoffs, with the "Messi No. 10" jersey being the most popular.
Seizures by Location
- New York: Approximately 65,000 counterfeit items
- Miami: Approximately 16,000 items
- Houston: Approximately 12,000 items
- Toronto, Canada: Approximately 16,000 related goods
Origin and Broader Concerns
U.S. Customs stated that about 60% to 70% of counterfeit goods shipped to the U.S. come from China. In addition to protecting intellectual property, law enforcement aims to prevent related revenue from flowing into organized crime networks.
UK Enforcement Action
Meanwhile, UK law enforcement seized 58,000 World Cup fake jerseys in Scotland, with a total value of approximately £5.5 million, setting a local record for such cases.
Source: Hupu | International Football News
Posted in Shanghai | Reads: 423
Source
虎扑 - 足球Neutral / independent
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US Seizes Over 445,000 World Cup Counterfeit Items, Messi Jerseys Most Common