Problematic jersey flock
DFB and Adidas stop sale of jersey with number 44
There is discussion about a specific number on the new national jersey. Manufacturer Adidas and the German Football Association react.
A journalist on X and then also “Bild” had previously reported on the Adidas plans. The combination was noticed on social media and many people took part in the discussion. “The DFB and its partner 11teamsports are responsible for the design of the names and numbers,” said Adidas spokesman Oliver Brüggen when asked by the German Press Agency.
Brüggen: “Adidas stands for promoting diversity”
Certain names with a connection to National Socialism could not be ordered from Adidas and the DFB. “This does not meet our personalization guidelines. Please try something else,” appeared as a note at Adidas when making a corresponding selection.
“People from around 100 nations work at Adidas, our company stands for the promotion of diversity and inclusion, and as a company we actively campaign against xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in all forms,” said Brüggen. “Any attempts to promote divisive or exclusionary views are not part of our values as a brand.” The company “strongly rejects any suggestions that this was our intention.”
The new jersey was presented shortly before the two international matches in France (2:0) and against the Netherlands (2:1). The campaign was accompanied by commercials that received a very positive response.