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Adidas has banned German football fans from customizing shirts with the number 44 amid claims it bears a striking resemblance to the logo of Nazi SS units.
The sports brand confirmed that it had “blocked the customization of the shirts,” but stated that the resemblance to the Nazi symbol was unintentional.
SS units were primarily responsible for crimes against humanity committed by the Nazis during World War II.
The issue of the custom kit was first raised by historian Michael König, who described its design as “highly questionable”.
He wrote in X: “Historically it is very questionable to allow this type of jerseys for the local European Championship.”
Members of the SS, designed by Nazi units in 1929, ranged from Gestapo agents to concentration camp guards.
Adidas has banned German football fans from customizing shirts with the number 44 amid claims they closely resemble the logo of Nazi SS units.
An SS logo is seen on the clothing of a German soldier circa 1935 (File Image)
The duties of SS members included managing concentration camps where millions of Jews and others were murdered.
Adidas spokesman Oliver Brüggen said: “We, as a company, are committed to opposing xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in all their forms.”
Meanwhile, for the first time in history, the uniform color is bright pink; Its followers claim that the color was chosen to represent the country’s diversity, the bbc reported.
However, some critics claim that the color was introduced to make money for the German Football Federation (DFB).
Germany will host the 2024 European Football Championship, which will be held in 10 different cities.
The issues raised with Germany’s customized kit come after England’s kit for the 2024 games was also widely criticized.
Nike caused a furore among England football fans for being “woke” after giving the country’s kit a controversial overhaul by altering the St George’s flag.
The American sportswear company has swapped the traditional red cross for one in navy, light blue and purple on the shirt that costs up to £125.
Fans and commentators criticized Nike for making what the brand described as a “fun update” to the collar to “unite and inspire” fans.
Some subsequently branded the new Three Lions jersey “woke” following its launch on Monday and demanded the flag be returned to its original colours.
But neither Nike nor the Football Association (FA) have any plans to retire the kit, with sources claiming the modified flag is a nod to the 1966 World Cup winners.
A Nike spokesperson said: “The England 2024 home shirt shakes up history with a modern take on a classic.
‘The trim on the cuffs is inspired by the training kit worn by England’s 1966 heroes, with a gradient of blues and reds finished with purple. The same colors also feature an interpretation of the St George’s flag on the back of the neck.’
MailOnline has contacted Adidas for comment.