Adidas bans fans from adding ‘44’ to German team football shirt

Social Media · April 2

Adidas has implemented a ban on football fans customizing the German national team shirt with the number 44 due to its perceived resemblance to the symbol used by Nazi SS units during World War II. The Schutzstaffel (SS), a paramilitary organization of Adolf Hitler's Third Reich, was notorious for its involvement in the genocide of Jewish people across Europe.

The concerns regarding the jerseys were initially raised by historian Michael König, who deemed the design "very questionable." Not only did the number 44 raise eyebrows, but the German away kit's pink color also stirred controversy. While some supporters argue that it reflects Germany's diversity, critics perceive it as unconventional and a commercial move orchestrated by the German Football Association (DFB).

Adidas spokesperson Oliver Brüggen emphasized that the resemblance to Nazi symbols was unintentional, stating the company's commitment to opposing xenophobia, antisemitism, violence, and hatred in all forms. As a result, Adidas has taken steps to block the personalization of jerseys with the number 44.

The SS rune, designed in 1929, has become synonymous with the heinous crimes committed by the Nazis. Members of the SS were involved in guarding concentration camps, interrogating suspects, and operating extermination camps like Auschwitz, where over a million people were murdered.

This incident follows another recent controversy involving an international football kit. Changes made to the St. George's cross on the back of England's team shirt collar faced criticism from fans. Nike's inclusion of purple and navy alongside the traditional red was intended to symbolize inclusivity, but critics viewed it as disrespectful and merely symbolic of "virtue signalling."

The upcoming European Football Championship, slated to take place in Germany this year, will see matches played in ten different cities. The tournament kicks off on 14 June, with Germany facing Scotland in the opening match.

03.04.24

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