World Cup: Why England did not play tournament final in their white home kit

England have played five of their six World Cup matches in their home kit. Credit: PA

By James Gray, Multimedia Producer

England lost out to Spain in their first ever World Cup trophy on Sunday.

The Lionesses booked their place after a thrilling 3-1 win over joint tournament hosts Australia, while Spain defeated Sweden 2-1.

Anticipation for the game across England reached fever-pitch levels, with a TV-audience of millions to following along live with the action.

One of the more peculiar details which has caught people's attention is that England did not play in their white home kit.

But why exactly was this decision been made? ITV News explains.

What kit did England play in?

England, as they did in Wednesday's semi final against Australia, played the World Cup final in their blue away kit.

What kit did Spain play in?

La Roja took to the pitch in their home kit, which is primarily red with blue and yellow.

Why will England not play in their home kit?

As tournament organiser, FIFA - world football's governing body - has final say over which kits are worn by competing teams in every World Cup match.

Before the World Cup began, each team was required to submit a first-choice and alternative kit design, which, per competition regulations, should be of "two different and contrasting colours". One of these should be "predominantly dark" and the other "predominantly light".

FIFA has said that "as far as possible" its preference is for each team to wear its "first-choice colours" - which are ordinarily home kits.

But, despite this, FIFA has decided the Lionesses will not wear their white home kit - as was previously donned on five occasions at this tournament.

FIFA did not announced specifically why it asked England to play in their away kit, although any decision is based on potential colour clashes with opponents and match officials.

A final verdict also "whenever reasonably practicable" takes into consideration viewers who are colour vision deficient - commonly known as colour blindness.

Relax opening and alcohol rules for Lionesses’ final, say pub bosses

Live coverage of this Sunday's FIFA World Cup final between England and Spain will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX, with kick-off slated for 11am BST

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