New York Cosmos and Admiral Sports Reunite for a Retro Capsule Collection
It’s 1979. The New York Cosmos are at the height of their powers, the undisputed kings of the North American Soccer League. Fresh off their third NASL championship—sealed in front of 75,000 fans at Giants Stadium—they had proven that life after Pelé was not only possible but even more popular. With World Cup winners Franz Beckenbauer and Carlos Alberto orchestrating play and Giorgio Chinaglia scoring for fun, the Cosmos remained a global phenomenon.
Now, in February 2025, Admiral and the New York Cosmos reunite to honor their historic partnership with a special capsule collection that pays homage to this unforgettable era. At the heart of the collection are retro jerseys of the iconic 1979 home and away kits, alongside a classic green Cosmos tracksuit. These pieces are complemented by fan shirts, tees, and a blackout range, a subtle nod to New York’s streetwear culture.
More than just a team, the Cosmos were an entertainment powerhouse, woven into the fabric of late ’70s New York. Their matches were must-see events, drawing celebrities, artists, and socialites, turning their locker room into a scene that felt more like Studio 54 than a football club. Their influence extended beyond the pitch—what they wore mattered just as much as how they played.
It was in this golden era that Admiral Sports became part of the Cosmos family, introducing a bold new kit that shifted the club’s secondary color from green to navy. Designed in collaboration with American fashion icon Ralph Lauren, it marked the first true intersection of lifestyle fashion and football (see original Ralph Lauren x Admiral press release attached) setting a precedent for style on and off the pitch. This partnership cemented the Cosmos as more than a team—they became a cultural institution in New York City.
This new collection is a tribute to a time when the beautiful game truly took hold in the Big Apple.
“We are thrilled to reunite with the New York Cosmos for this collection, celebrating a moment in football history that was truly special. The Cosmos represented the glamour and excitement of football in the late 1970s, and Admiral was there to define the team’s look. This collection brings that spirit back to life for a new generation of fans.”
