Nike decided to change the traditional colors of the English flag from the usual red to a red adorned with purple and blue, sparking controversy in the country and drawing criticism from former players and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Nike stated that this new design is a tribute to the team that won the World Cup in 1966 and that their intention was not to offend anyone.

"We have been working with the FA (Football Association) since 2012 and understand the importance and significance of the St. George's Cross. It was never our intention to offend, as we know what it means to English fans," the clothing brand said in a statement.

"The intention was to celebrate the heroes of 1966 and their achievements. The color mix is taken from the training wear worn by the 1966 heroes, with a touch of blue and red and with purple. The same colors appear in an interpretation of the flag on the back of the neck."

This controversy arose following the unveiling of the kits that England will wear in the upcoming Euro 2024. The jerseys are being sold for $157 and feature this reinterpretation of the flag on the back of the neck.

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Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, criticized the decision and urged not to play with these symbols. "It is a source of pride, identity, of who we are and they are perfect just as they are," the Prime Minister added.

A petition for Nike to backtrack and change the colors of the flag has gathered over 20,000 signatures on the "Change.org" website.