"Three Little Birds" Removed From Ajax Kit Due To UEFA Rules

Sep 12, 2021

by Chris

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Dutch side Ajax has to alter their popular Adidas 2021-2022 'European' / third kit to apply with UEFA Equipment Regulations, it has been revealed by Ajax news website Ajax Life.

The Adidas Ajax 21-22 third kit is inspired by Bob Marley. It features Three Little Birds on the back under the collar as a tribute to the famous song of the Jamaican singer.

Ajax 21-22 Third Kit Released - Back in Stock

Sep 13, 2021

Three Little Birds Not Allowed By UEFA Team identification Rule

As reported by Ajax Life, inquiries at Ajax learn that the UEFA has indicated that it does not agree with the Three Little Birds on the back.

“The European Football Association sees it as a different expression than the club logo, logo clothing sponsor, or sleeve sponsor. Other expressions are not allowed.”

UEFA defines its official Equipment Regulations (Chapter III - Team identification - Article 13 Types) which types of team identifications are allowed. Ajax's "Three Little Birds" are not seen as a Team Identification by UEFA.

Ajax already wore the kit without the birds in the league

What is interesting is that Ajax was forced to already debut the Adidas 21-22 European kit in this weekend's Eredivisie match against Zwolle to avoid a kit clash. Ajax wore the kit without the Three Little Birds but it seems possible that Eredivisie will allow the little birds in the future.

Bayern's "Münchner Kindl" is allowed as it is from the city coat of arms

Teams like Real Madrid or Tottenham also have special symbols on their 2021-22 third kits but just inside the collar. UEFA's strict Team Identification rules do not apply to inner parts of kits due to our understanding.

Other symbols are allowed by UEFA. For example, FC Bayern Munich has the "Münchner Kindl" on the back under the collar. As it is taken from the Munich city coat of arms, it is allowed.