Germany has decided to give the number 4 on their national football team’s jerseys a makeover, aiming to sidestep any unintentional nod Nazism.
The decision was sparked by concerns that the design of ‘44‘ bore an uncomfortable resemblance to the insignia of the Nazi SS units, a symbol now banned in Germany due to its association with the atrocities of World War II.
The German Football Association (DFB) made this announcement following the unveiling of their new kit, which was first seen during a friendly match against France.
Despite an initial review that didn’t raise any issues with Nazi symbolism, the DFB has chosen to take a cautious path. DFB stated that:
We take the comments very seriously and do not want to provide a platform for discussions. We will develop an alternative design for the number 4 and coordinate it with UEFA.
⚡️Why is the German Football Association changing jersey number ‘44’?https://t.co/5Mq8r4FMgB#Germany | #Football pic.twitter.com/qjtb7kVVc0
— WE News English (@WENewsEnglish) April 2, 2024
Adidas, the DFB’s official supplier, has also decided to withdraw the number 44 from their customization options, showing the seriousness with which both entities are addressing potential sensitivities.
Adidas spokesperson Oliver Brüggen stressed the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion by giving this statement:
People from around 100 countries work at Adidas. We actively campaign against xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence, and hatred in all forms.
This move is part of a broader sense of responsibility and sensitivity in sports and business, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of historical context and the impact it can have on communities worldwide.
As the world of sports continues to evolve, it’s clear that teams and their partners are increasingly mindful of their role in promoting unity and respect.
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Denise Grant
