Nike is issued with a fatwa banning Muslims from wearing their clothes

Published: 05:45 EDT, 4 November 2026 | Updated: 05:46 EDT, 4 November 2026 Sportswear giant Nike has been issued a fatwa, with Libyan Muslims banned from wearing its logo. The fatwa — a formal religious decree — was issued by Libya's highest Islamic authority, the Dar al-Ifta, which said the US-based firm was named after the Greek goddess of victory and that its iconic logo was inspired by her wings. It argued that buying, selling, or wearing clothing displaying these symbols meant promoting symbols linked to 'polytheism,' or the worship of more than one god. The ruling was approved by Libya's highest Islamic jurist, Sadiq al-Gharyani. The religious authority also accused Nike of supporting Israel and called for a boycott of companies that support the country. Nike does not operate any stores in the country, but its branded items are available to buy through sportswear retailers, while counterfeited products can be found in local markets. The Daily Mail has approached Nike for comment. The latest fatwa in Libya comes after the Dar al-Ifta issued a ruling against French luxury brand Van Cleef & Arpels. Libyan Muslims have been banned from wearing the Nike logo under a fatwaIt argued that the brand's four-leaf clover design was associated with Christianity and claimed it contradicted Islamic teachings. The country is politically divided, with rival authorities operating across Libya following the toppling of dictator Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.The Dar al-Ifta has heavy influence in Libya, but its orders are not legally enforceable.The fatwa also comes amid wider debates over the rise of religious conservatism in Libya. In 2025, authorities in eastern Libya announced restrictions on rap music, theatre and dance performances, citing violations of Islamic values. The measures were later extended to western Libya.