The German Football Federation (DFB) confirmed to the media that this shirt has broken the record for the number of away shirts sold in history, from the time of launch until EURO 2024 kicks off. The success of this pink outfit comes despite the controversy that erupted as soon as it was released.
“In contrast to the more traditional elements of the home shirt, the new away shirt aims to represent the new generation of German football fans, as well as the diversity of the country,” the DFB shared. in March. “The diamond pattern on the shirt is also said to represent the wings of an eagle. The outfit is completed with purple shorts and socks.”
Typically, Germany’s secondary jerseys – with the home jersey always being white and black – are red, black or green. On the contrary, this time it was a bright pink color, disappointing many people. The biggest complaint is that the new kit has no elements of the national flag. Additionally, some argue that it is not “German” enough. On social networks, it was ridiculed as a “Barbie outfit” and an inappropriate shirt for a team of Germany’s caliber.
However, manufacturer Adidas anticipated these backlashes. Much criticism was later included in the teaser video for the shirt release, which became very popular online. This outfit is especially loved by young fans.
Not only is it supported by young people, many current players, including veteran Thomas Muller and 21-year-old young star Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen, also appear in promotional videos. There is also the presence of Rudi Voller, currently the director of the national team but also one of the greatest players of all time when he won the 1990 World Cup with West Germany.
“I think the away jersey is great!” Wirtz shared in the official announcement. “It is something different and truly extraordinary. We are aiming for a EURO taking place at home and want to perform well with both outfits.”
Honorary president of Bayern Munich, Uli Hoeness, also supports this outfit. “All these criticisms are meaningless,” he said in March. “Players can play naked with their kits painted on. The most important thing is what happens on the field. I don’t care what they wear.”
The success of pink jerseys is a rare thing. The DFB and the German public have been at loggerheads since the 2014 World Cup, when the national team became increasingly unpopular in a cycle of controversy and failure, hitting rock bottom with a group stage exit. World Cup 2018 and 2022. But with a pink Die Mannschaft, who knows, maybe it will create a turning point in both thinking and action!