In a bold move, sportswear giant Adidas has announced a ban on football fans from purchasing German football kits customized with the number 44, following concerns raised about its resemblance to symbols associated with World War II-era Nazi SS units.
This decision comes after historian Michael König highlighted the questionable design of the kits, expressing concerns about their resemblance to Nazi symbols.
The use of the number 44 is particularly sensitive, as it bears a striking resemblance to the SS rune, a symbol associated with the notorious Nazi units responsible for heinous crimes against humanity.
Adidas spokesperson Oliver Brüggen has denied any intentional connection to Nazi symbolism, emphasizing the company’s commitment to opposing xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence, and hatred in all forms.
In response to the controversy, the German language Football Association (DFB) has announced that alternative designs for the number 4 will be developed, seeking to address the concerns raised by the public.
Additionally, the newly released kit has stirred further controversy with its choice of bright pink as the away color.
This development comes amid a decision by the DFB to switch from German brand Adidas to American giant Nike as the manufacturer of German football kits starting in 2027. The move has sparked criticism from some quarters, with Economy Minister Robert Habeck condemning it as lacking in patriotism.
As Germany prepares to host the upcoming European Football Championship in 10 different cities, the controversy surrounding the football kits adds another layer of complexity to the nation’s football landscape.
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