Corinthians, the historical Brazilian football club, jointly with Nike, have waved the flag for an anti-racism campaign this 3rd of May, 2024. Their clarion call? "Our history is a page in black". As a striking symbol of this fight, they've released their new home and away jerseys for the 24/25 season.
To fully grasp the depth of this initiative, it's crucial to look at the figures; a staggering 41 percent of footballers and pros competing in Brazil's top tiers have faced racism. It’s alarming statistics like these that call for immediate action. So, joining the battle against this social plague, Nike and Corinthians have pulled forces, kickstarting an initiative to tackle racism, symbolised prominently in the launch of their new jerseys.
Under this rallying banner "Nossa história é uma página em preto", the launch of the Corinthians’ new kits is announced. Available tomorrow on the club's official website and in Poderoso Timão stores, the new look typifies the poignant message of their campaign. Bounding beyond aesthetics, the joint operation also includes educational sessions on racial literacy for players in the youth divisions, professional teams, both male and female, as well as staff.
Partnering with the Observatory of Racial Discrimination in Football (ODRF), their efforts extend beyond just a fashion statement. The kits, a visual representation of the anti-racism fight, stand out in stark black and white contrasts. The new home jersey predominantly shines in white and smoothly transitions into gradations of black.
We'll got our first glimpse of it at Neo Química Arena on Saturday, May 4th. Names of the gladiators taking the field and their respective battle numbers, showcased in a bespoke typeface, originate from the artistic studio of Giulia Fagundes. Gaining inspiration from the enriched tapestry of the African diaspora, the typography is more than just eye-catching. A unique texture weaving its magic encapsulates symbols (Adinkra) rooted in Ghana—a homage to the unfathomable might and cultural richness of the team.
A flirt with Afrofuturism is evident, tastefully integrating the grandeur of the past and what could be heralded in the future. Inside the neckline harbors an emblem - a hand - in the quintessential Corinthians' colors. It carries with it a message, "Tamo Junto e Misturado", signifying unity in the face of adversity and rallying against racial discrimination. "Since its foundation at the beginning of the last century, Corinthians has always been popular, inclusive and a defender of a democratic, multicultural sports practice," said the President of Corinthians, Augusto Melo. "But more needs to be done. That's why we're in this cause, together with Nike and other partners, in this fight against racism in a practical way, going far beyond campaigns and uniforms. Corinthians has always been and will always be the Alvinegro Paulista, the Black People's Team." The Corinthians 24/25 attire can now be claimed from nike.com.br, waiting to be adorned by faithful supporters.
