Newcastle United have removed a scene from the launch video of their new third kit, apologising for any offence it caused.
The new blue kit with orange trim was revealed on Monday, launched with a video featuring Magpies fan and pop star Sam Fender.
The video was taken down, though, and reposted with a scene removed as it could have caused offence.
The original video featured a scene which showed a flag resembling the Rising Sun flag which was flown by Japanese armed forces during WWII.
A spokesperson for Newcastle told the Northern Echo: ‘We have been alerted to the appearance of a flag in our recent third kit launch video that could inadvertently cause offence.
“In response, we immediately removed the video from circulation and have taken steps to edit the visual from all future content.
“We sincerely apologise for any offence caused.
A further statement after the video was reposted read: ‘The reaction to our new third kit with adidas has been special, but the launch video contained a scene that could inadvertently cause offence. We apologise for that.
‘We’ve removed the scene from the film to make sure that as many fans as possible can enjoy it.’
Why is the Rising Sun flag offensive?
The rising sun flag is a red circle on a white background – like the current Japanese flag – but with 16 red lines emerging from the central circle.
It was previously used as the flag of the Japanese military during a time when Japan occupied other Asian nations. It was then associated with the Japanese navy during WWII when Japan’s troops spread across Asia, committing atrocities in the process.
Other Asian countries – notably South Korea – see the rising sun flag as a representation of war crimes and atrocities that Japan committed in the past.
The new third kit will be worn for the first time against Celtic on July 19, with the club talking up the ‘modern tribute to the iconic 97/98 third kit.’
Peter Silverstone, the club’s Chief Commercial Officer said: ‘This third kit is a powerful blend of past and present – a bold design that reflects both our proud history and the exciting journey ahead. Working closely with adidas, we’ve created something that we hope will resonate deeply with our global supporters, bringing back an iconic look with a modern twist.
‘There’s a real pride in wearing the trefoil – a symbol that connects generations of fans and players. Our passionate global fanbase will see this and wear it with pride, especially as we return to the UEFA Champions League for the second time in three years.
‘Just as importantly, every adult shirt sold direct from the club contributes directly to our Foundation’s work across the North East, reinforcing our commitment to community impact on and off the pitch.’
