Borussia Dortmund’s new away kit for the 2025/26 season has sparked outrage among fans, prompting the club to acknowledge the backlash and vow to respond.
The jersey, which combines a white base with black sleeves and neon yellow details, debuted in Saturday’s 2-0 Bundesliga win over Heidenheim.
But instead of excitement, its debut sparked outrage in the stands and online. Fans held up banners one after another and denounced “The most brutal jersey in the league” as a carol “We want black and yellow jerseys” rang out before kick-off, a poignant reminder of the club’s traditional colours.
Reaction on social media was also unkind. Many supporters felt the design betrayed Dortmund’s historic identity, while critics argued it looked more like a training top than a shirt befitting a famous player. Schwarzgelben.
Club owners are now committed to listening.
Managing director Carsten Kramer took personal responsibility for the incident, telling reporters: “The criticism has been received and we are addressing it. The responsibility lies with me. We are not always able to please everyone when it comes to jersey selection.”
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl was more cautious, reminding fans that opinions on jersey design will always be divided.
“I think we look at the jersey differently every year,” he said. “A Dortmund jersey will never be 100% approved. Fundamentally, we know which colors represent our city and our club, and this is reflected in the design of almost all jerseys.”
He humorously added: “However, there are also people who want something younger, fresher, creative. The new jersey brings Dortmund three points at Heidenheim. I would say it is a successful jersey. Everything else is a discussion that we as a club consider normal.”
It remains to be seen whether the jersey will be unveiled again when Dortmund travel to Mainz on September 27, but if it does, you better believe Dortmund fans will have something to say about it.
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