The 125th Anniversary of the Italian Football Federation
adidas is commemorating the 125th anniversary of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) by creating a celebratory kit for the national team on the occasion of the UEFA Nations League Finals 2023, scheduled to be held in the Netherlands.
The kit draws inspiration from the one worn by the national team during their debut match in 1910 (Italy vs. France, 6-2 at the Arena Civica in Milan) and features a retro look reminiscent of the soft cotton and comfortable fit of the original historic jerseys. It is crafted using the most advanced technologies and finest technical materials available today.
The jersey is white with gold details and adorned with the crest of the Italian national football teams, accompanied by a golden laurel crown and the detail of the FIGC's 125th anniversary (1898–2023). On the other side, the adidas logo is also in gold. The kit features a white crew neck from which the traditional three adidas stripes run across the shoulders. The "Flatnik" technique and its modern interpretation of classic aesthetics enhance the embroidery on the short sleeves. A valuable additional element is an anniversary label placed on the right side. The shorts are also white with gold details, featuring the three stripes running along the sides and the celebratory version of the national team crest for the FIGC's 125th anniversary on the right thigh. The socks, adorned with golden embroidery, are black, with "Italia" written on the front, the adidas logo on the back, and the three stripes below the knee.
Lorenzo Reich, Senior Director of Sports Marketing at adidas, stated, "Celebrating FIGC's special anniversary within the scope of our partnership is truly remarkable. adidas believes that 'Through sport, we have the power to change lives,' and thinking about how many lives have been transformed both inside and outside of Italy by the FIGC and its teams is something that deeply touches the soul of every football enthusiast. Recalling the rich history of FIGC to bring this celebratory kit to life has only deepened our mutual respect with FIGC, and we are certain that fans throughout Italy will perceive this kit as a timeless reflection of 125 years of Italian football history."
Gabriele Gravina, the President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), said, "Thanks to the collaboration with adidas, we celebrate the 125 years since the foundation of FIGC with an iconic jersey, steeped in history and modernity. The anniversary kit perfectly embodies our vision for the development of football: values and deep roots represent the backbone of a movement that looks to the future and change without hesitation or reluctance. Moreover, it is particularly significant that the national team, which represents the pinnacle of a broad and diverse system that includes over 1 million members, is honoring the Federation's birthday. I am confident that this special kit will be highly successful, just like the home and away collections launched last January."
The kit will be sold in a limited edition of 2023 pieces, matching the year of the anniversary, in a two-part white box with gold accents. The top part of the box, created with relief technique, showcases the celebratory version of the national team crest for the FIGC's 125th anniversary, adorned with the four stars symbolizing World Cup victories and surrounded by a golden laurel crown.
Our Take
The Italian national team's new kit by adidas has left us in awe, evoking a sense of rebirth and resurgence reminiscent of the powerful aria Nessun Dorma. It's as if the echoes of "all'alba vincero" reverberate through the fabric, declaring that the national team is poised for a triumphant return.
adidas has masterfully captured the essence of Italy's classic beauty and renowned craftsmanship, seamlessly blending simplicity with a nod to the complexities of modern fashion. The kit symbolizes a continuation of adidas' partnership with the national team, emphasizing the nation's timeless allure and its commitment to excellence. We are enamored by the design and craftsmanship displayed in this kit, a true reflection of Italy's rich football heritage. The white jersey, adorned with exquisite gold details, exudes elegance and sophistication. The intricate embroidery and the commemorative elements paying homage to FIGC's 125th anniversary add an extra layer of prestige.
This kit perfectly encapsulates the notion of the Italian national team's revival, awakening a sense of excitement and anticipation among fans worldwide. It serves as a visual reminder that Italy, like the soaring crescendos of Nessun Dorma, is ready to reclaim its rightful place on the international football stage.
We, at onetwo, are already planning to secure our own piece of this magnificent kit. It is a must-have for any passionate supporter, as it symbolizes the renewed spirit of the Italian national team and pays tribute to the nation's footballing heritage.