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Category: News

Kukri Sports Gears Up for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

With just one year to go until the world’s finest athletes descend on Scotland for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate this milestone alongside Team England, as their Official Kit Supplier, and begin the countdown to one of the biggest multi-sport events on the planet.

From 23 July – 2 August 2026, Glasgow will welcome over 5,000 athletes from 72 nations and territories of the Commonwealth to compete across 10 sports and disciplines – from athletics to aquatics – in a spectacular celebration of sport and community.

Kukri Sports, as long-standing partners of Team England, is already hard at work designing and producing the iconic kit that the athletes will wear as they strive for glory. Having supported Team England since 2014, we take pride in helping the athletes look and feel their best as they represent their country on the international stage.

For Glasgow 2026, sustainability will also take centre stage in our approach, with a focus on producing kit using more environmentally responsible materials and processes — reflecting both Kukri’s and Team England’s shared commitment to a more sustainable future for sport.

Glasgow 2026 promises to deliver a Games like no other, building on the city’s rich sporting heritage and vibrant culture. Fans can expect electrifying action across iconic venues, showcasing traditional and contemporary sports with equal passion. The Games’ inclusive programme will once again feature fully-integrated para-sports, highlighting diversity and excellence in equal measure.

Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, said:
“We’re thrilled to join Team England in marking the one-year-to-go milestone for Glasgow 2026. These Games are a pinnacle of the sporting calendar, and it’s an honour to play our part in supporting Team England as they prepare to inspire the nation. Our design and production teams are focused on delivering a kit that reflects the pride, heritage and ambition of Team England athletes — while also making sustainability a key priority as we look to reduce our environmental impact.”

Kukri Sports invites fans and followers to join the countdown and show their support for Team England as the athletes prepare to make history in Glasgow. Visit our Commonwealth Games Hub and follow our channels for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, kit reveals, and updates as the Games approach.

For more information on Glasgow 2026, visit: www.glasgow2026.com
For more information on Team England, visit: teamengland.org

Kukri Sports and University of Westminster Partnership Announcement

Kukri Sports has teamed up with the University of Westminster in a new multi-year partnership that will see the brand become the official sportswear supplier for the university’s teams, staff, and students.

Blending performance with personalisation, the collaboration will deliver custom-designed apparel that captures the energy and identity of Westminster’s vibrant community.

“We are thrilled to partner with the University of Westminster, an institution that shares our values of inclusivity, innovation, and excellence,” said Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports. “This partnership is not just about providing sportswear; it’s about empowering students and enhancing their university experience through sport.”

The University of Westminster, known for its diverse and vibrant student body, offers a wide range of sports and fitness activities across its campuses. This partnership with Kukri is expected to enhance the university’s sports programs, providing students with high-quality apparel that fosters team spirit and performance.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Kukri and excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings. Their commitment to quality and performance aligns perfectly with our values, and we look forward to providing our teams with sportswear that reflects our shared dedication to excellence.” Steve Owen, Director of Membership Services

This collaboration follows Kukri’s successful partnerships with other UK universities, including Loughborough University and the University of Exeter, where the company has supported athletic programs and student development initiatives.

University of Westminster

The University of Westminster offers a range of sports facilities that support student well-being and athletic activity. The Harrow Campus hosts “The Den,” a modern sports hall and gym, free for students and staff. The Regent Street Gym offers cardio and weight equipment, personal training, and group classes. The Chiswick Sports Ground includes pitches for various sports and a pavilion. These facilities help foster a vibrant sports culture and support active student teams through the Students’ Union.

For more information visit www.westminster.ac.uk

CELEBRATING NINE YEARS OF SPORTING EXCELLENCE WITH HEREWORTH SCHOOL

New Zealand

Hereworth School has recently debuted its brand-new rugby jersey, designed and supplied by long-standing sportswear supplier Kukri Sports, who have an office in New Zealand.

A partnership built on pride and performance

The developments mark nine years of trusted partnership, a collaboration that continues to fuel the school’s sporting success and reinforce its strong sense of identity, both on and off the field.

The jersey pays tribute to the original colours and classic styling first worn when the school was founded in 1927.

The design not only honours past generations of Hereworth athletes, but also connects today’s students to the enduring values of discipline, teamwork and school pride.

The first XV rugby team debuted the jersey in an action-packed morning of sport, winning their game along with the hockey and 2nd XI football match against Lindisfarne.

Driving participation and growth

Kukri continues to play a key role in supporting Hereworth’s sporting programme, empowering students across a variety of sports to compete with pride.

Recent highlights include the launch of the school’s first-ever Netball team, as well as multiple teams competing in fixtures against other schools. A standout moment last year was the winter prep fixture against Scots College, which saw 108 students compete across various sports – including the girls’ football teams playing their first-ever match against each other.

A partnership built on pride and performance

The developments mark nine years of trusted partnership, a collaboration that continues to fuel the school’s sporting success and reinforce its strong sense of identity, both on and off the field.

The jersey pays tribute to the original colours and classic styling first worn when the school was founded in 1927.

The design not only honours past generations of Hereworth athletes, but also connects today’s students to the enduring values of discipline, teamwork and school pride.

The first XV rugby team debuted the jersey in an action-packed morning of sport, winning their game along with the hockey and 2nd XI football match against Lindisfarne.

Driving participation and growth

Kukri continues to play a key role in supporting Hereworth’s sporting programme, empowering students across a variety of sports to compete with pride.

Recent highlights include the launch of the school’s first-ever Netball team, as well as multiple teams competing in fixtures against other schools. A standout moment last year was the winter prep fixture against Scots College, which saw 108 students compete across various sports – including the girls’ football teams playing their first-ever match against each other.

Speaking on the partnership, Mark McConnell, General Manager at Kukri New Zealand, said “Hereworth has been a great partner for us.

“We value the close collaboration with the school, and we look forward to working with them and continuing to support their students’ participation and help them reach their full potential.”

A strong sporting culture

Based in Havelock North, Hereworth is one of the region’s premier independent and co-educational preparatory day and boarding schools from students from Years 0-8.

The school offers a comprehensive sports programme, with summer and winter sports teams competing in local weekly competitions in tennis, cricket, softball, teeball, football, netball, hockey and rugby.

Hereworth also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a six lane 23 metre swimming pool, four artificial tennis courts, five grass wickets and purpose-built rugby and football fields.

Speaking on the new jersey, Tom Hill, Hereworth 1st XV rugby coach said, “It’s special to be turning the clock back in our new traditional 1st XV jersey.

“It perfectly reflects the past and also proud history. We really appreciate Kukri’s work on this, allowing our players to represent the school with pride.”

Supporting school sport across New Zealand

Kukri’s partnership with Hereworth school is one of many long-standing relationships the brand holds with schools across the country.

As a dedicated supplier to the education sector, Kukri New Zealand also provides high-performance sports and PE apparel to institutions such as Christchurch Boys High, Southland Boys High, Karamu High School, Napier Boys High and Rotorua Boys high.

These partnerships reflect Kukri’s commitment to fostering participation, pride and performance in school sport – from grassroots to elite level.

Looking ahead

As the partnership nears its tenth year, Kukri remains dedicated to supporting Hereworth school by continually evolving the kit and backing the school’s growing sporting ambitions.

Find out more about Hereworth School

The Power of Motivation: How Elite Athletes Stay Driven to Perform

United Kingdom

Whether it’s chasing a new personal best, returning from injury, or representing their country, sport is about more than talent or physical ability, but also the inner mindset that keeps athletes going through challenges, setbacks and pressure.

As a global sportswear provider, we’re committed to supporting this whole journey by providing innovative, high-performance kit that helps athletes feel confident, focused and empowered to perform at their best.

We spoke with four of our elite ambassadors – nine-time Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft CBE, world number ten ranked beach volleyball duo the Bello Brothers and England Lacrosse international Liv Thomas to explore how they stay motivated.

Hannah Cockroft CBE

“Mindset plays a massive role in my training and competition. It’s so hard to get a good session in when your mind is determined not to enjoy it,” she said.

“I truly believe that 50% of winning is believing you can.”

To sharpen that belief, Hannah uses visualisation to prepare mentally for each race, allowing her to focus and eliminate distractions.

When it comes to performance wear, practicality and psychology are equally important.

“I need clothing that works with my race chair and doesn’t distract me mid-session.

“It’s also about looking elite, because when you look the part, you feel the part.”

Javier & Joa Bello

For the Bello Brothers, mental preparation is at the core of their world-class performance, beginning long before the first serve.

“We always begin tournament days with a morning activation — light training, scouting opponents, and setting a game plan. That structure gives us confidence and helps manage pressure.”

As brothers and teammates, their unique connection fuels their performance.

“In beach volleyball it’s just the two of us — no coach, no substitutions. Trust is one of our biggest strengths. It’s taken years to build that bond.”

Liv Thomas

After two major injuries in just 18 months, Liv knows exactly how motivation and resilience intertwine.

“Staying in touch with my teammates and sharing my journey online helped me stay accountable and reminded me of how far I’d come,” Liv reflects.

Returning to the international stage has given her a new appreciation for the sport.

“I’ve become so much more grateful for every time I get to step on the pitch.

“Putting on that England shirt again was such a powerful moment. Wearing it just motivates me to keep working and to never take it for granted.”

What Motivation Means to Them

We asked each athlete to sum up what motivation in sport means to them:

– Hannah Cockroft CBE: “Motivation is waking up every day and wanting to be better than yesterday.”

– Javier & Joa Bello: “It’s the drive to prove to ourselves that we belong with the best.”

– Liv Thomas: “Motivation is knowing how far I’ve come and how far I still want to go.”

Motivation, powered by performance

Motivation looks different for every athlete — but mindset is what drives progress. Kukri is proud to support athletes through every step of their journey, with sportswear that empowers them to perform, focus, and keep moving forward.

Find out more about our ambassadors

Want to know how we can help you? Get in touch with us today

KUKRI SPORTS ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ROYAL AIR FORCE CENTRAL FUND

Kukri Sports strengthens commitment to supporting UK armed forces personnel through new collaboration with the RAF Central Fund.

Kukri Sports is proud to announce a new partnership with the Royal Air Force Central Fund, reinforcing its dedication to providing high-quality sportswear to UK armed forces personnel.

As an organisation committed to promoting physical activity and well-being among serving RAF personnel, the RAF Central Fund plays a vital role in supporting the health and fitness of the Royal Air Force community. Through this partnership, Kukri Sports will supply bespoke, high-performance sportswear to RAF athletes, ensuring they have the best apparel to perform at their peak across a variety of disciplines.

Commenting on the partnership, Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with the RAF Central Fund to support their mission of keeping RAF personnel active. At Kukri, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative and high-quality sportswear solutions, and we are honoured to contribute to the health and performance of those who serve our country. This latest collaboration, following our partnership with British Army Sports, highlights our ongoing commitment to supporting the UK’s armed forces.”

Ross Perriam, CEO at the RAF Central Fund, said: “Our aim is for all serving RAF personnel to develop their full potential through sport and physical activities.

An integral part of this is ensuring that they have the best possible equipment and kit in which to participate in.

We are delighted to have the support of four strong brands, each providing high-quality sporting clothing and equipment and all-round excellent value for money to the RAF.

Collaborating with leading sportswear brands that are economically sustainable was a key goal for the Fund. With responsible consumption and production at the forefront of our values, it was important to us that we work with suppliers who share our environmental ethics.”

The partnership will see Kukri Sports provide custom-designed kit for a range of RAF Central Fund-supported sports initiatives, with a shared goal of fostering physical well-being and promoting active lifestyles within the RAF.

Learn more about the RAF Central Fund.

KUKRI SPORTS CELERATES PRIDE MONTH WITH VOICES FROM PARTNER ATHLETES

Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate Pride Month by amplifying the voices of partner athletes who embody the spirit of inclusivity, diversity and acceptance in sport.

This Pride Month, we’re shining a light on what pride means in sport, through the powerful words of athletes from our partners including British Wheelchair Basketball, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Exeter and UBC Women’s Rugby in Canada.

What pride means to our athletes

Lucy Robinson, a member of the British Wheelchair Basketball GB Women’s team and 2018 U24 European Championships gold medallist, shares: “Pride Month is a chance to celebrate equality, inclusivity and love… to shout loudly about love being love.”

James Kay, a former national-level track cycling athlete and current Manchester Met University futsal player, emphasises: “It’s a time to celebrate and support others so people can feel they can be their true self without being discriminated against.”

Jennifer Jones, a dedicated player for Manchester Met Women’s Rugby, sees pride as both a personal and collective celebration: “It means a huge sense of community and a celebration of who we are as individuals, regardless of outside constraint.”

Chloe Whitworth, sports president at University of Exeter, highlights: “Pride celebrates the historic significance of LGBTQ+ community and embraces inclusivity by being yourself.”

Anonymous,a current player for UBC Women’s Rugby player, powerfully states: “It’s a time of visibility, reflection and celebration.

“Pride is about rejecting the idea that you have to hide part of yourself to play the sport you love.”

Building inclusive teams and environments

Our partner athletes consistently share how their sport and teams foster a sense of belonging:

– Lucy Robinson (British Wheelchair Basketball): “We are all one. Wheelchair basketball includes everyone — ability, disability, gender, race or sexuality.”

– James Kay (Manchester Met): “We promote campaigns like Rainbow Laces and challenge hateful behaviour.”

– Jennifer Jones (Manchester Met): “Rugby values what makes each player great — it’s made for all shapes of body and mind.”

– Chloe Whitworth (University of Exeter): “We want everyone to feel the benefits of playing without barriers.”

– Anonymous (UBC Rugby): “We live out inclusivity through our culture, conversations and commitment.”

Why belonging in sport matters

Every athlete we spoke to share the same belief: sport should be a place where you’re not only accepted, but celebrated:

– Lucy Robinson: “Sport gives the opportunity to not only be who you are, but celebrate it. Feeling like you belong creates confidence and happiness.”

– UBC Rugby: “Belonging means you can show up without fear, take risks, and be vulnerable. “When sport is inclusive, it becomes a space of healing, empowerment and transformation.”

– Jennifer Jones: Authenticity is rare — and you’ll find yourself 10x happier just being you.”

– Chloe Whitworth: “Sport is a universal language – you should always feel like you can be yourself, surrounded by a close-knit family with a common love.”

– James Kay: “Embrace your true self. You’ll always find a place where you’re accepted.”

Kukri Sports’ commitment

We stand with the LGBTQ+ community in sport and beyond. Together, we can create environments where everyone is respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Because sport belongs to everyone.

Kukri Sports Joins Forces with Lagan Dragons to Champion Breast Cancer Awareness

Ireland

Kukri Sports is proud to partner with the Lagan Dragons, Belfast’s pioneering dragon boat team that supports individuals affected by breast cancer.

Champions on and off the water

Open to all as a registered Community Amateur Sports Club, the Lagan Dragons have built a strong reputation not just for their impact off the water, but also their success on it – claiming podium finishes at events across Ireland and beyond.

Their impressive track record includes finishing first place in the BCS category at the Hong Kong Dublin Dragon Boat Regatta, a recent second place at Lough Rinn and a third-place finish at last year’s Barcelona International Dragon Boat Festival in the ‘Breast Cancer Survivors’ category.

The supporters’ t-shirt: A symbol of unity and support

Through this partnership, Kukri is providing bespoke kit for the team, including customised fleeces, smocks, performance t-shirts, vests and a specially designed supporters’ t-shirt aimed at the wider community.

Available for personalisation, 10% of each sale from the supporters’ t-shirt will be rebated directly back to the Lagan Dragons, significantly aiding their fundraising efforts and helping to spread vital awareness.

Voices of the partnership

Karen Dougan, captain of Lagan Dragons and currently living with stage four breast cancer, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative.

“We’re delighted to launch our new supporter’s tee in partnership with Kukri Sports – designed especially for fans, family and friends who stand with us on and off the water.

“With Kukri’s support, we’ve created a high-quality tee that lets you show your pride in style – whether you are cheering from the shore, volunteering at events or simply backing the team you love.”

She added, “This is more than just a great piece of kit – it represents our mission to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, provide opportunities to participate in dragon boating, offer wellness and education, and build a supportive community for all those affected by breast cancer.

“Wear it with pride. Stand with the Dragons.”

Our community support

The initiative forms part of Kukri Ireland’s wider strategy to support meaningful community projects and further expand its footprint across a more diverse range of sports, including recent moves into volleyball and pickleball.

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland, added, “We’re incredibly proud to support the Lagan Dragons, not only as athletes, but as advocates, survivors and difference makers.

“This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to community-focused initiatives and marks another step in our mission to support and celebrate sport in all its forms across the country.”

This partnership is more than just sport—it’s about strength, community, and standing together in the face of adversity. By wearing the Lagan Dragons supporters’ t-shirt, you’re not only backing a team—you’re championing a cause.

How you can support the Lagan Dragons

Lagan Dragons are heading to Berlin next to take part in the CityCup from 5th to 6th July, at the regatta course in Berlin-Grünau.

The supporters’ t-shirt now, available until 6th July only. Shop now.

Find out more about Lagan Dragons and their mission.

Curious how Kukri can empower your team? Get in touch today.

Kukri Sports and Hull University Students’ Union Launch Exciting New Partnership

Kukri Sports is proud to announce a dynamic new partnership with Hull University Students’ Union (HUSU), delivering a fresh look and renewed sense of unity for students through sport.

The new partnership will introduce a bold, modern range of sports kit that champions HUSU’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, positivity, fun and supportiveness – both on and off the field.

The new agreement sees Kukri Sports become the official kit supplier for Hull’s student-led sports teams, reinforcing the Athletic Union’s strong sporting ethos and its proud relationship with the Team GB affiliated University of Hull. The partnership will bring students a revitalised range of bespoke kit, designed to promote a sense of belonging and team spirit across the campus community.

A Fresh New Look for a New Generation of Students

At the heart of the partnership is a newly designed kit collection that combines contemporary style with high-performance functionality. Tailored for athletes and active students alike, the new range not only reflects the students’ union’s heritage and ambition,but also resonates with the energy and pride of its student body.

Creating Unity Through Kit

Kukri’s mission to unite teams through custom sportswear aligns perfectly with HUSU’s vision to build a strong campus community. The new kit provides students with more than just sportswear – it’s a statement of identity, unity, and shared purpose.

Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, commented:
“We’re thrilled to partner with Hull University Students’ Union and provide a kit that reflects the pride, determination, and inclusivity of their student athletes. As a Team GB university, Hull shares our commitment to excellence, and we’re excited to help build a stronger sporting identity on campus.”

 Francis Ani, President for Student Communities at Hull University Students’ Union stated:
 “I am thrilled that our Athletic Union has partnered with Kukri in readiness for the next generation of Hull University Students’ Union athletes. This collaboration will empower our teams, from rising talents to competitive leaders, to train harder, perform stronger, and proudly represent HUSU in kit that reflects their dedication to pushing boundaries.”

About Hull University Students’ Union

HUSU’s student-led Athletic Union features 45+ clubs, offering opportunities from casual play to competitive leagues. Committed to inclusivity and excellence, Hull supports students to thrive both academically and athletically. The University of Hull is a top choice for students passionate about sport and active living. As a Team GB partner, it has invested over £16 million in cutting-edge facilities, including the Allam Sports Centre with a 12-court sports hall, 120-station gym, fitness studios, and floodlit 3G pitches.

Find out more

Kukri Sports Powers British Rowing to Golden Glory at European Championships  

United Kingdom

Great Britain’s rowing team delivered a stunning performance at the 2025 European Rowing Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria (29 May – 1 June), finishing top of the overall medal table to defend their European title.

Of the 39 athletes selected, 28 were crowned champions of Europe, marking one of British Rowing’s most successful European campaigns to date, fuelled by the debut of Kukri’s new high-performance rowing suits.

High-Performance Kukri Rowing Suits Make Championship Debut

Worn for the first time at a major European event, Kukri’s high-performance rowing suits supported all GB crews, delivering comfort, confidence and elite performance on the water.

British Rowing’s crews claimed nine medals, six of which were gold, that underlined the power of preparation and benefits of cutting-edge kit.

Rising Stars & Record Breakers

Reigning Olympic champion, Lauren Henry, delivered one of the performances of the championships in the Women’s single sculls, claiming gold in her first senior international regatta in this boat class.

“To make the podium is really, really special. I wanted to come here and make a name for myself and I feel like I’ve done that.

“I want to be World Champion, I want to be Olympic Champion, I want to break the world best time, I want to be the most successful British single sculler ever. That’s my aim. I’ve still got many years to go — but watch this space!”

Benjamin Pritchard Sets Records & Makes History

Paralympic champion Bejamin Pritchard made his mark with a gold medal in the PR1 Men’s single sculls, setting a world best time of 08:40.38.

“I’m the first ever British PR1 European Champion. Full stop,” Pritchard said.

“Getting a World best time twice in a week is all pretty special to go down in the history books for that. I’m just getting started.”

More Medals & European Best Times

GB Rowing Team’s success continued with a gold, silver and two bronze medals on the first day of the finals.

The women’s quadruple sculls crew of Sarah McKay, Lola Anderson, Cam Nyland and Becky Wilde stormed to gold in a European Championship best time, highlighting the strength in depth across the team, with the women’s eight team also putting on a show to win their race in style.

The GB Men’s eight made history of their own, defeating a powerful Dutch crew by just 0.24 seconds to claim their fifth consecutive European title, setting a new British record in the process and reinforcing their dominance on the continental stage.

Pushing the Limits with Kukri

“We are very proud to have played a part in this golden chapter for British Rowing,” said Andy Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.

“There’s a real sense of pride in seeing our suits contribute to history being made, and supporting these fantastic athletes as they continue to chase greatness.”

Looking Ahead

Next up this season, British Rowing will be competing in the World Rowing Cup Varese from 13 – 15 June, with all six European gold medal winning crews returning to represent Great Britain.

Kukri stands proudly behind British Rowing – delivering elite sportswear that performs at the highest level.

Are you ready to upgrade your kit? Get in touch