Kappa have dipped into their treasure chest of nostalgic references once again, this time linking up with independent streetwear label Cruel Pancake for a collaboration that feels like a love letter to 90s and 2000s football, Italian style, and the spirit of the dolce vita. The result is ‘Maestro of the Game’ — a pop-infused, colourful capsule that celebrates retro aesthetics with a modern streetwear twist.
Founded by Hugo Philip, Cruel Pancake has built its reputation on creating intentional drops — limited editions, strong pieces, and a community that thrives on individuality. In teaming with Kappa, they’ve channelled that philosophy into a collection that doesn’t just nod to the past but reworks it for today’s terrain, fusing the romance of Calcio’s golden years with the raw poetry of the streets.
The capsule lands with four unisex pieces: a zipped jacket cut oversized and dripping with streetwear energy; a long-sleeved jersey that twists classic football DNA into a pop-driven statement; a short-sleeved jersey carrying a co-branded logo created specifically for this collab; and a pair of socks to tie it all together. Each piece is bold, colourful, and unapologetic — designed to let you assert your style while paying homage to the beautiful game’s golden age.
For Kappa, the link-up is another step in cementing their reputation as custodians of football culture beyond the pitch. For Cruel Pancake, it’s proof of an uncompromising creative vision that thrives at the intersection of sport, music, and streetwear. Together, they’ve crafted a collection that celebrates individuality while reminding us why 90s and 00s football style still hits so hard.
Shop the collection soon at cruelpancake.com
