Adidas has stirred controversy with its release of the Germany football kits, particularly regarding the option to customize jerseys with the number 44.
Several media outlets have highlighted the resemblance of this number to the symbol used by Nazi SS units during World War Two.
Why has Adidas banned fans from buying Germany football kits with the number 44 imprinted on it?
Consequently, Adidas has decided to prohibit fans from personalizing their jerseys with the number 44.
An Adidas spokesman spoke on barring individuals from personalizing the jerseys, saying: “We will block personalization of the jerseys.”
The symbol of the SS units remains deeply associated with the atrocities committed by the Nazis, making its unintentional resemblance to the football kits a matter of concern.
Historian Michael König was among the first to raise objections to the design, labeling it as “very questionable.”
The SS rune, initially created in 1929 for use by Nazi units, symbolizes a dark chapter in history, where SS members were involved in administering death camps and perpetrating unimaginable horrors.
Despite the unintentional resemblance, Adidas spokesman Oliver Brüggen emphasized the company’s commitment to opposing all forms of social vices.
He said: “We as a company are committed to opposing xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in every form.”
The German Football Association (DFB) and its partners were responsible for designing the numbers on the shirts, according to Adidas.
The DFB stated that during the design process, the shirt designs underwent review by UEFA, with no parties identifying any proximity to Nazi symbolism.
However, in response to the concerns raised, the DFB announced plans to develop an alternative design for the number 4.
In addition to the controversy surrounding the number 44, the choice of bright pink as the away color has also sparked debate.
Differing opinions on the football kits
Supporters argue that the color represents Germany’s diversity, while critics suggest that it’s a departure from tradition and may have been introduced primarily for financial gain.
Adidas has a long history of manufacturing German jerseys, dating as far back as the 1950s.
However, the DFB’s decision to switch to American giant Nike as the manufacturer of German football kits from 2027 has drawn criticism from some quarters, with Economy Minister Robert Habeck saying the move lacks “patriotism.”
Despite the controversies surrounding the kits, Germany is gearing up to host this year’s European championship.
Germany Boss Julian Nagelsmann will undoubtedly benefit from Tony Kroos’s return, who may be playing in his final Euros.
Although they will be buoyed by recent victories against France, the three-time European champions will be looking to add a fourth title to their collection on home soil.
They are placed in Group A as they will come up against formidable opponents in Hungary, Scotland, and Switzerland.
As discussions continue regarding the design and production of the national team’s jerseys, the focus remains heaped on the sport while being mindful of historical sensitivities and societal values.
