Philadelphia Union unveils '1776' jerseys for America's 250th anniversary

The new uniforms pay tribute to the city's history and its role as a host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Philadelphia Union have unveiled their new '1776' primary jerseys, which pay homage to America's 250th anniversary and Philadelphia's historic role in the nation's founding. The jerseys feature references to Benjamin Franklin, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Liberty Bell, and other patriotic symbols. The club will host pop-up shops to showcase the new kits ahead of the 2026 MLS season and the city's hosting of several 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.

Why it matters

The new '1776' jerseys are a way for the Philadelphia Union to celebrate the city's pivotal place in American history as the nation marks its 250th birthday. With Philadelphia also set to host several 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, the jerseys provide a unique opportunity to showcase the city's global relevance and soccer culture to an international audience.

The details

The Union's new '1776 Kit' jerseys include historical references and typography, featuring images of Benjamin Franklin, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Liberty Bell, and John Hancock's signature. The jocktag on the jersey features '1776', and on the back of the jersey, by the neck, is Franklin's 'Join or Die' snake that became a rallying cry during the Revolutionary War. The club will host three pop-up shops to feature the new kits starting on February 13th at locations around the city.

  • The Union unveiled the '1776 Kit' jerseys on February 10, 2026.
  • The first pop-up shop to feature the new jerseys will be held on February 13th at the IBX River Rink from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
  • The second pop-up shop will be at Independence Hall on February 14th from noon to 2 p.m.
  • The third pop-up shop will be at Dilworth Park on February 15th from noon to 2 p.m.
  • The Union will open the 2026 MLS season on February 21st at Audi Field against D.C. United.

The players

Philadelphia Union

The professional soccer team that plays in Major League Soccer and is based in Chester, Pennsylvania.

Amanda Young Curtis

The senior vice president of marketing and communications for the Philadelphia Union.

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What they’re saying

“The 1776 Kit represents a historic moment for Philadelphia and for the club. America's 250th anniversary and the FIFA World Cup create a unique opportunity to showcase Philadelphia's history, pride and global relevance, and this jersey is a symbol of that moment.”

— Amanda Young Curtis, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Philadelphia Union (Press Release)

What’s next

The Philadelphia Union will kick off the 2026 MLS season on February 21st at Audi Field against D.C. United. Prior to the regular season, the Union will play against Defence Force FC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on February 18th.

The takeaway

The Philadelphia Union's new '1776' jerseys are a creative way for the club to celebrate Philadelphia's pivotal role in American history as the nation marks its 250th anniversary. With the city also hosting several 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, the jerseys provide an opportunity to showcase Philadelphia's global relevance and soccer culture to an international audience.