AS Roma Withdraw Controversial Adidas Tracksuit After Fan Backlash

Italian capital club AS Roma have decided to pull a tracksuit jacket design released by Adidas from the market following widespread fan outrage.

The tracksuit drew sharp criticism for its design and color scheme, which resembled the uniform of Lazio, Roma's city rivals.

The criticized tracksuit was primarily light blue with white stripes, while only the upper part was dark red, Roma's dominant color.

Fans quickly expressed their dissatisfaction on social media and other platforms, arguing that the product did not align with the club's identity and traditions.

In response to the backlash, AS Roma management, under the ownership of the Friedkin Group, immediately instructed Adidas to halt sales of the product.

"We understand and greatly appreciate the fans' passion for the club's identity. We have asked Adidas to immediately withdraw this product from the market," a Roma spokesperson told Calciomercato on Thursday (4/7/2024).

Additionally, Michael Wandell, Chief Commercial and Brand Officer responsible for the tracksuit project, is currently undergoing a disciplinary process, with speculation that he could be fired due to the incident.

The controversial tracksuit has now been removed from all AS Roma official stores and online sales platforms, although the matching sweatpants are still available. Fans who purchased the tracksuit are invited to return it.

AS Roma and Adidas have not yet commented on their future plans to prevent similar incidents.

Meanwhile, AS Roma fans hope that this incident serves as a valuable lesson for everyone involved in preserving the club's values and identity.