The German Football Association (DFB) has officially unveiled a special jersey to commemorate its 125th anniversary, culminating years of rich history marked by emotion and triumph. The announcement came on March 17, 2025, with both current and former football legends coming together to celebrate this milestone.
Designed by Adidas, the anniversary jersey reflects the aesthetic of the legendary 1974 jersey worn by the national team during their home World Cup victory. The classic white color with black accents pays homage to iconic moments from the DFB's storied past. The celebration isn't just about the jersey itself; it also serves as a reminder of the passion shared by countless fans across Germany.
According to the DFB, "Die Kollektion steht sinnbildlich für große Emotionen und besondere Momente, die die deutschen Fußball-Fans gemeinsam erlebt haben" (The collection symbolizes the great emotions and special moments shared among German football fans). This statement captures the essence of what the jersey will represent when the team takes to the field.
The men's national team will wear the jersey for the first time on March 20, 2025, during the UEFA Nations League quarter-final match against Italy, taking place in Milan. This high-stakes match is set to kick off at 20:45 local time. The DFB is also preparing for the debut of the women's national team, who will don the anniversary jersey for the first time in April 2025.
The jersey, priced at 100 Euro for the short-sleeved version and 110 Euro for the long-sleeved version for adults, reflects both nostalgia and modern design. Children’s versions are available for 75 Euro (short-sleeved) and 85 Euro (long-sleeved). The popularity of the DFB's jersey often transcends generations, appealing not only to die-hard football fans but also to collectors.
Notably, the DFB logo on the new jersey departs from the common federal eagle emblem and instead showcases the historical design from the association's founding days. This change has sparked interest and discussion about the significance of historical symbols leading up to the DFB's longstanding legacy.
To promote the jersey, Adidas launched a campaign titled "Der Stoff aus Legenden" (The Fabric of Legends), illustrating the collective memory of the DFB through visual storytelling. The campaign features legends like Rudi Völler, Thomas Müller, and current players including Jule Brand and Florian Wirtz, highlighting their contributions not just on the pitch but also to the identity of German football.
The promotional video presents VIRTZ and BRAND visiting the facility, where they receive their new jerseys after hearing from legendary players about the fabric woven from past successes. The playful narrative showcases incidental moments chained from past tournaments, emphasizing the interconnectedness of generations of players. VIRTZ commented, "Das sieht ziemlich legendär aus" (That looks pretty legendary), perfectly encapsulating the anticipation surrounding the jersey's introduction.
Fans have eagerly awaited the release of this limited-edition jersey, which symbolizes collective memories and triumphs shared among supporters. This speaks volumes about football’s power to bring people together, marking pivotal moments on and off the field.
DFB traces its origins back to January 28, 1900, when it was founded at the 'Restaurant am Mariengarten' in Leipzig with just 90 clubs. Over the years, it has expanded exponentially, now comprising over 24,000 clubs and more than 7.7 million members. The DFB has witnessed numerous changes, challenges, and glories throughout its history, underscoring its role as the backbone of football culture within Germany.
With each anniversary, the DFB invites football enthusiasts to reflect on the glorious past and embrace the promising future of the sport. The 125th anniversary jersey isn't simply fabric; it's woven with the stories of legends, victories, and unforgettable moments — reminding us all why we love the beautiful game.
For fans and collectors, the new jersey is available through the DFB fan shop, selected Adidas online stores, and various retailers, ensuring it's accessible to those who want to partake in this historic celebration. The anniversary outfit not only includes jerseys but also shorts, socks, and more from the limited collection, encapsulating the spirit of 125 years of football.
Indeed, the DFB’s 125th-anniversary jersey encapsulates not just the past, but also the future of German football, where tradition meets modernity on the pitch. This blend promises excitement as the German teams don the anniversary jersey, adding yet another chapter to the DFB’s illustrious history.