London: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed regret on Wednesday following a stir on social media regarding his choice of a pair of Adidas sneakers, described as trendy. In a video shared online last week, the British Indian leader was seen sporting a pair of white Samba trainers from the renowned German athletic brand during an interview in Downing Street.

Adidas characterizes Sambas as an iconic shoe with a storied past, often perceived as fashionable, but some footwear enthusiasts felt this status was undermined by the senior politician’s attempt to align with current trends. “I extend my most sincere apologies to the Samba community,” Sunak mentioned to LBC Radio when queried about the situation.

“However, in my defense, I’ve been wearing Adidas trainers, including Sambas and others, for numerous years. My brother gifted me my first pair as a Christmas present many, many years ago, and I’ve been devoted ever since,” he explained.

Sunak, 43, acknowledged that the specific pair of Sambas he donned last week was a recent purchase, yet insisted this did not compromise his longstanding connection with the brand. “As usual, I find the attention to what I’m wearing both intriguing and amusing,” added Sunak with a chuckle, having previously faced criticism for expensive Italian designer slippers and unusually short trousers.

Following the Instagram post on Friday, fashion analysts speculated that Sunak’s appearance in the sneakers in a government tax policy post could spell the end for the trendiness of the Samba trainers. British GQ noted that in an attempt to appear youthful and stylish, Sunak may have inadvertently sullied the reputation of the once universally stylish sneaker.

Footwear historian Elizabeth Semmelhack told The Times that Sunak tried to tap into a widespread fashion moment but did so in a manner lacking in genuine authenticity.