The Evolution of Italy’s National Team Jersey: A Visual History
The Italian national football team, also known as the Azzurri, has a rich history and a proud tradition of producing some of the most iconic and beloved football teams in the world. One of the key elements that contributes to this legacy is the team’s iconic jersey, which has undergone numerous changes over the years to reflect the country’s evolution, fashion trends, and more. In this article, we’ll take a visual journey through the history of Italy’s national team jersey, exploring its design, colors, and significance.
Early Years (1920s-1930s)
The first Italian national team, formed in 1920, wore a jersey that was predominantly green with a white crest featuring the Italian tricolor. The jersey was designed by the team’s first coach, Costanzo da Costa, who wanted to represent the country’s national colors. The early jerseys were made by local manufacturers, such as Umbro, and featured a simple, straightforward design with minimal embellishments.
Futurist Era (1940s-1950s)
Following World War II, Italian football underwent a significant transformation, with the introduction of a new, more modern design for the national team jersey. The 1940s to 1950s saw the Azzurri wear jerseys with a more vibrant, bold aesthetic, characterized by a predominantly white base with a green and azure blue stripe running horizontally across the chest. This design was inspired by the Futurist art movement, which was popular in Italy during this period. The jersey’s bold colors were meant to symbolize Italy’s renewed sense of national pride and rebirth.
The Golden Era (1960s-1970s)
The 1960s and 1970s are often referred to as the "Golden Era" of Italian football, with the national team enjoying great success at the World Cup and European Championship. During this period, the jersey underwent a subtle but significant transformation, with the introduction of a more streamlined design. The 1970 World Cup-winning team, led by captain Giacinto Facchetti, wore a simple yet iconic white jersey with a green and blue stripe, a nod to the country’s heritage. The jersey’s minimalist style reflected the era’s emphasis on simplicity and functional design.
The Puma Era (1980s-1990s)
In the 1980s, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) signed a sponsorship deal with the German sportswear brand Puma, which led to a radical makeover for the national team’s jersey. The Puma era is marked by a more flashy, high-tech design, with the introduction of a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and bold color combinations. The jersey’s style was influenced by the neon colors and graphic patterns popular in 1980s pop culture. This era also saw the introduction of the team’s now-iconic "Baudos" logo, designed by Gattullo and Jenner (a popular Italian design firm).
The Asics Era (2000s-2010s)
In the 2000s, the Italian Football Federation partnered with the Japanese sportswear brand Asics, leading to a more modern and sleek design for the national team jersey. The Asics era is characterized by a return to a more classic, simplistic aesthetic, with the introduction of a more understated, clean-lined design. The jersey’s color palette was refined, with a focus on a more muted blue and white scheme. This era also saw the introduction of the "Azzurri’s" new motto, "L’Italia, Sarai Forte" (Italy, You Will Be Strong).
The current Era (2010s-present)
In 2010, the Italian Football Federation signed a partnership with Puma once again, marking the return of the sportswear brand to the Azzurri’s jersey. The current era is defined by a focus on simplicity and modernity, with the introduction of a sleek, streamlined design that blends old-school tradition with contemporary aesthetics. The jersey features a bold, sharp-cut silhouette, with a nod to the team’s heritage through subtle nods to the past. The current jersey’s color scheme has a more muted, sophisticated palette, with a focus on a darker blue and white combination.
Conclusion
The evolution of Italy’s national team jersey is a reflection of the country’s complex history, cultural trends, and sporting achievements. From the early days to the modern era, the Azzurri’s jersey has undergone numerous transformations, each reflecting the era’s style, technology, and national identity. As the Italian national team continues to compete on the world stage, their iconic jersey remains an integral part of the country’s football heritage, a symbol of pride and patriotism that unites the nation.
