CBP Seizes 80 Counterfeit Soccer Jerseys, Including Fake FIFA Gear, at NY Port of Entry

(WS News) – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Rochester, New York port of entry seized 80 counterfeit soccer jerseys, including 40 fake FIFA-branded shirts, in the latest crackdown on knockoff merchandise riding the wave of interest in this year’s World Cup.

A Predictable Target for Counterfeiters

Major sporting events reliably draw a spike in counterfeit merchandise, and this year’s World Cup has been no exception. Officials say fake jerseys, often manufactured to closely mimic official team and tournament branding, are among the most commonly seized items at ports of entry during major tournaments, as counterfeiters try to cash in on fan demand for cheaper alternatives to licensed gear.

Enforcement Efforts Ongoing

CBP has stepped up inspections at ports across the country throughout the tournament, working to intercept counterfeit goods before they reach resale markets. Beyond the direct financial harm to licensed manufacturers and sports federations, officials note that counterfeit goods operations can also be tied to broader smuggling networks that authorities continue to monitor.

What Happens to Seized Goods

Seized counterfeit merchandise is typically destroyed rather than resold, in line with standard CBP procedure, and cases involving significant volumes can be referred for further investigation into the source of the goods.