NFL
After racism accusation: Washington’s football team changes name to Commanders
By 2020, the football team competed as the Washington Redskins. The name was repeatedly criticized for being racist.
© Patrick Semansky / DPA
Washington’s football team has unveiled a new name after months of searching. In the new season, the team competes as Washington Commanders. The original name was repeatedly criticized.
The Washington Football Team around David Bada from Munich will appear as the Washington Commanders in the North American NFL from the coming season. This name is the result of an 18-month process, the club announced on Wednesday. A TV broadcaster’s drone had previously captured the new lettering on the stadium.
“As an organization we look forward to coming together under our new identity and celebrating successes together,” said co-owner Dan Snyder in a club statement. “But at the same time, we’re also paying tribute to our local roots and what it means to represent the nation’s capital.”
Washington: Racist name sparked criticism
As of 2020, the organization competed as the Washington Redskins for 87 years. However, this designation was perceived as racist. In addition to Commanders, the suffixes Admirals, Armada, Brigade, Sentinels, Defenders, Red Hogs and Presidents as well as the previous title Washington Football Team were also available.
Washington missed the playoffs this season. With seven wins from 17 games, the team finished third in the NFC East division.