Germany's unusual kit choices in Euro 2024 spark debate
Germany is hosting the ongoing Euro 2024. They played their first match against Scotland, winning 5:1 while wearing white uniforms. This choice might seem unusual because the host nation's flag consists of three colors: black, red, and yellow. So, why have Germany's "home" kits been white for decades?
3:21 PM EDT, June 19, 2024
The German national soccer team is the host of this year's European Championships. Julian Nagelsmann's squad is striving to advance to the next tournament phase in Group A. Their opponents are Hungary, Switzerland, and Scotland.
The colors of the kits in which Germany started the tournament have raised many questions. The hosts won 5:1 against the Scots, playing in white and black uniforms. Why are "Die Adler" dressed explicitly in white and black?
The reason lies in a long-standing tradition dating back to Prussia. Black and white are the colors of this now-defunct German state. When the German Football Association (DFB) was established in 1899, adopting Prussian colors was a natural choice.
The first set of German uniforms raises questions, the second set sparks major controversy
It's not just the first set of the German national team's kits that is up for discussion. The second "away" kit, which DFB unveiled in March, is pink with purple elements. The manufacturer of the kits, Adidas, has taken a bold approach this time. Until now, the "away" kits were black, green, or red.
In contrast to the more traditional elements of the home jersey, the new away kit is meant to represent a new generation of German soccer fans and the diversity of the country. The diamond pattern on the shirt is also meant to depict the eagle's wing. The look is completed by purple shorts and socks—this is the official stance of the German Football Association.
The manufacturer of the host's kits is Adidas. The German apparel giant states that the controversial pink jerseys are selling like hotcakes. They are especially popular with the younger fans of coach Nagelsmann's team.
