Newcastle United have officially released their green and white away kit ahead of the 2022/23 season.
What’s the latest Newcastle United news?
On Tuesday, the club officially launched an away strip to have attracted much in the way of criticism.
Clearly, it’s hard to get away from the fact the kit bares a striking resemblance to the one worn by Saudi Arabian national team, with green and white being the only colours on their flag.
Leaked images first emerged back in May and, given the controversial nature of the takeover back in October, any further links to the Gulf state were always likely to attract criticism.
Amnesty released a statement when images of the kit were emerging online.
“If it is true that Newcastle United is changing its away kit to match Saudi Arabia’s national colours, it exposes the power of the Saudi dollar and the kingdom’s determination to sportswash its brutal, blood-soaked human rights record,” said Felix Jakens, Amnesty International UK’s head of campaigns (via The Guardian).
“Despite all their assurances of a separation between the Saudi owners and the club this seems like clear evidence of the regime using Newcastle to portray a positive image.
“Everyone – from fans to champions – needs to resist being part of Saudi Arabia’s propaganda drive, be aware of what is going on there and speak out about the government’s abuses: the mass executions, [the journalist Jamal] Khashoggi’s murder and dire situation for LGBTI+ people. Sport must not be allowed to be used like this.”
Alex Hurst, host of the True Faith podcast, said (via The Daily Mail): “This was to be expected and I don’t have an issue with it. If they changed the home shirt, that would be different.
“But it would be hypocritical of me to welcome the money they spent on the team in January and then criticise when they want to make a change kit with links to their own country.”
Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan reportedly signed the kit off.
What have Newcastle United said about the kit?
A statement posted on the official website read: “The club has revealed a white and green third kit, designed by the premium British sportswear brand, that will be worn on the road.
#NUFC‘s 2022/23 third kit is now available to order! #BetterNeverStops
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) June 28, 2022
“The Magpies’ kits are expertly crafted with Castore’s blend of high-stretch fabrics, offering an outstanding fit and freedom of movement for players and supporters alike.
“The ‘Pro’ edition, worn by the players, features a range of technological advancements, with exceptional materials and laser-cut ventilation to enhance performance on the pitch.
“All adult shirts will feature Newcastle United’s primary sponsor, FUN88, across the chest.”
Who are Newcastle’s new sponsors?
On Monday, the club also announced a new sleeve sponsor in the form of Middle East-based noon.com, the region’s “leading digital e-commerce platform for fashion, electronics, beauty, groceries, home and baby products”.
According to Arab News, the deal is worth around $9.2m per season.
