VfL Wolfsburg have unveiled their new third kit for the 2026/27 season with an on-pitch surprise. The red Nike shirt made its debut during Tuesday's 4-0 DFB-Pokal first-round victory away to VSG Altglienicke. The team secured the comfortable win at the Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Sportpark.
The kit marks a significant colour departure for the club. It features a bold, solid red base with a faint, geometric pattern and white detailing on the collar and cuffs. The most prominent feature is the large white 'ID.POLO' lettering across the chest, continuing main sponsor Volkswagen's campaign to promote its new electric vehicle line. The VfL Wolfsburg crest and the Nike Swoosh are also rendered in white on the shirt.
Cup debut for new colours
The kit's first appearance came as a surprise to supporters. New strips are typically launched in pre-season or at dedicated events, but Wolfsburg opted for a competitive reveal. The comfortable 4-0 win at the Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Sportpark provided the perfect setting. The emphatic result and the debut of the striking outfit went hand in hand. The club confirmed after the match that the decision to debut the kit in the cup opener was intentional.
With the red third kit, Nike has now completed Wolfsburg's strip lineup for the upcoming campaign. The squad will have three full kit sets available for the months ahead. When the new shirt will be used in Bundesliga matches is not yet clear. Kit rotation planning is handled by the coaching staff. Fans can check the squad list list and upcoming schedule in our team overview and fixtures section.
Production of the kits by Nike is already underway. Official sales to supporters will begin shortly, following the industry standard of making shirts commercially available after their sporting premiere. The design is part of the American sportswear giant's current collection. Nike has been a partner of the club for years, as has automotive sponsor Volkswagen, whose deal runs for several more seasons. A club spokesman emphasised the good cooperation with both partners.
For the players, the new kit simply means more choice. During congested fixture periods with many games in quick succession, a third strip is a practical tool to avoid colour clashes with opponents. The next opportunity to see the red shirt could come in the Bundesliga fixture this weekend. The specific kit choice for each match is confirmed shortly before kick-off. The home kit remains green and white, while the away strip is traditionally white.
