The German Football Association (DFB) is gearing up to celebrate its 125th anniversary, marking over a century of influence and success within the world of football. To honor this significant milestone, Adidas is set to release a special commemorative jersey inspired by the classic designs of the 1970s, particularly reflecting the winning spirit of the German men's national team during the 1974 World Cup.
The new jersey will officially make its debut during the Nations League matches against Italy on March 20 and 23, 2025. The upcoming matches also symbolize one of the final performances of the national team outfitted by Adidas before Nike takes over as the new supplier starting from 2027.
Founded on January 28, 1900, the DFB is one of the oldest football associations globally, and this anniversary provides the perfect opportunity for Adidas to pay homage to the organization’s storied legacy with the release of this unique jersey. This design not only honors past successes but also marks what is likely to be one of the last dresses Adidas will produce for the national team, making it even more significant for fans and collectors alike.
The commemorative jersey will feature primarily cream or white fabric adorned with black details on the collar and cuffs. A significant aspect of this design choice is the omission of the federal eagle, instead integrating the historical DFB logo from 1900, which will be prominently displayed. This reflects the DFB's roots at the time of its establishment when the modern symbols of the Federal Republic of Germany had yet to be introduced.
According to the DFB, "The design of the jubilee jersey is based on the retro jersey from 1974, the year when the German men's national team won the home World Cup." By referencing this successful era, the jersey not only acts as clothing but also serves as a representation of national pride and collective memory for fans.
Fans will be able to purchase the jersey starting March 17, 2025. The adult versions will be available at 100 EUR for short sleeves and 110 EUR for long sleeves, with children's options priced at 75 EUR for the short-sleeve version and 85 EUR for the long-sleeve. A special blue goalkeeper jersey will also be introduced, aligning with the retro feel of the field players' jerseys.
It’s expected the national team, led by head coach Julian Nagelsmann, will don this eye-catching attire during their European fixtures. The matches against Italy promise to be filled with excitement, as both teams vie for victory but also serve as stages showcasing the historical significance of the event and the recently unveiled commemorative jersey.
While not yet worn during any competitive play, anticipation surrounding the jersey continues to grow. Football historians and fans are particularly excited, as this jersey not only celebrates the past but also acts as both remembrance and farewell to Adidas’ longstanding collaboration with the DFB. This transition speaks to the evolution of football brands and the marketing strategies companies employ as they aim to capture the attention of dedicated fans.
Despite this shift, the essence of German football will live on through the jersey and its design features. It makes one pause to appreciate the transformations of sports culture, memorabilia, and national identity over the years. Indeed, this special jersey encapsulates the spirit of the DFB, transitioning its storied tradition to new horizons as it embarks on its next chapter.
With the DFB commemorative jersey set to be available for purchase, it is certain to become more than just sportswear—it is expected to turn quickly become a sought-after collectible, embodying the rich history of German football. Collectors and fans alike are advised to act fast, so as not to miss out on this unique piece of sporting heritage.
Overall, as the DFB approaches its quarter-century milestone, the release of the jubilee jersey stands as monumentally significant—not just for the history it remembers but for the future it heralds as well.