Acclaimed artist has teamed up with Tottenham Hotspur to reimagine the Club's 2026-27 Nike Away shirt, celebrating the creativity, diversity and community spirit of north London
Date: 5 November 2026
Known for his bold use of colour, distinctive patterns and storytelling, Yinka Ilori, who was awarded an MBE in 2021 for services to design, has built an internationally recognised creative career exploring themes of identity, belonging and optimism.
His latest collaboration draws inspiration from Tottenham's rich cultural heritage and the communities that make the area unique. The reimagined shirt combines Yinka's signature visual style with a celebration of the people, places and experiences that shape north London.
The design features the message “We Are Tottenham, Wherever We Go”, reflecting the connection supporters carry with their community wherever they are in the world.
Speaking about the collaboration, Yinka said: “This project is a celebration of belonging and the power of football to bring people together.
“For me, football is about the wider culture and the incredible sense of unity that comes from standing on the terraces, chanting alongside thousands of others. I wanted the design to honour Tottenham Hotspur’s heritage while capturing that collective joy and spirit. The ‘Never Far From Home’ message really resonated with me, reflecting how football has the power to make you feel at home, wherever you are.”
Growing up in Islington, Yinka developed a deep appreciation for north London's cultural diversity. His connection to the area has continued through his creative work, including his role as Artist in Residence at Heart of Hale in Tottenham Hale.
Internationally acclaimed graduate
Yinka graduated from London Met's School of Art, Architecture and Design in 2009 with a degree in Furniture and Product Design. He has previously credited a project set by his tutor Jane Atfield with helping shape his creative approach. The assignment challenged students to transform discarded chairs into new designs, introducing Yinka to the power of storytelling through everyday objects.
Reflecting on the experience, he said: “This project opened my eyes to new ways of working and understanding the importance of storytelling through chairs.”
Since graduating from London Met, Yinka has established a distinctive creative practice spanning art, architecture, furniture, product design and publishing. His work transforms everyday objects and public spaces into colourful celebrations of culture and community.
This collaboration represents a continuation of Yinka’s creative practice, which spans art, architecture, furniture and product design, and storytelling through books and exhibitions. He recently launched his Chairman monograph and exhibition in Islington, alongside the launch of the Yinka Ilori Foundation, further extending his commitment to creativity, culture and community.
Pic: London Met alumnus Yinka Ilori MBE (second from left) celebrates his colourful collaboration with Tottenham Hotspur, reimagining the Club’s 2026/27 Nike Away shirt.