Nike slapped with Islamic fatwa for ‘promoting polytheism’ via Greek goddess symbol

Libya’s Dar al-Ifta, the country’s top religious authority, issued a fatwa saying Muslims should not buy, sell or wear Nike clothing. It argues that the brand’s swoosh is based on the Greek goddess Nike and wearing it promotes polytheism; the ruling also cites Nike’s alleged support for Israel.

Fatwas are religious opinions and are not legally binding. Nike has no stores in Libya, though local retailers sell its products, alongside counterfeit goods. Dar al-Ifta issued a similar ruling against jewellery brand Van Cleef & Arpels in 2025 over its four-leaf clover design.