Marking 150 years of footballing heritage, Aston Villa and Adidas have joined forces to release a stunning anniversary jersey that pays homage to the club’s rich history. Set to debut during the third round of the Emirates FA Cup against West Ham, this special-edition kit celebrates the formative years of one of England’s most storied clubs, blending tradition with modern craftsmanship.
A Lion and a Nod to the Club’s Origins
The anniversary kit draws inspiration from Aston Villa’s first-ever uniforms, long before the iconic claret and blue colours became synonymous with the club. The sleek black design is a tribute to the club’s early days, specifically 1880, when Villa wore black while clinching their first major honour, the Birmingham Senior Cup. This understated look serves as a reminder of the club’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most recognized teams in English football.
Aston Villa’s pioneering spirit was evident as early as 1878, when they became the first club in the UK to feature a crest on their kit. The crest, a Scottish lion rampant, was sourced directly from Scotland by William McGregor, a founding father of the Football League and a pivotal figure in Villa’s history.
For this anniversary jersey, the lion rampant has been meticulously redrawn using the earliest available sources, ensuring authenticity while celebrating the club’s deep-rooted heritage. The crest stands as a symbol of Villa’s enduring legacy and McGregor’s visionary contributions.
An Authentic Tribute
Adding to the jersey’s significance, Aston Villa’s principal sponsors—Betano and Trade Nation—have graciously foregone their branding for this special edition. This decision leaves the kit unblemished, allowing the historic design to shine in its purest form. Such a move underscores the collaborative effort between club and partners to honour Villa’s legacy authentically.
Alongside the jersey, Adidas has introduced a complementary cultural wear collection, designed to blend the club’s historic identity with contemporary fashion. This range extends the anniversary celebration, offering fans additional ways to connect with the club’s illustrious history.
Chris Heck, President of Business Operations at Aston Villa, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating:
“We are so grateful to have partners that go above and beyond our partnership for the good of the fans, thank you adidas and thank you Betano and Trade Nation.”
Looking Ahead
As Aston Villa steps onto the pitch against West Ham in this historic kit, fans and players alike will be reminded of the club’s incredible journey over the past 150 years. With its blend of tradition, innovation, and respect for the past, this anniversary jersey is more than just a uniform—it’s a celebration of Villa’s enduring legacy in the footballing world.
