AC Milan, one of the titans of European football, is on the cusp of commemorating an exceptional milestone: its 125th anniversary. The club was officially formed as “Milan Foot-Ball and Cricket Club” on December 13, 1899, thanks to the vision of English émigré Herbert Kilpin. This momentous occasion is not merely a personal celebration for the Rossoneri; it’s a reflection of their storied past that has left an indelible mark on the sport. With an illustrious collection of honors, including seven European Cup/Champions League titles and 19 top-flight league championships, AC Milan stands as a paragon of excellence and tradition in football history.
Unveiling the Commemorative Kit
In a fitting tribute to this remarkable heritage, AC Milan has introduced a special anniversary kit that embodies the club’s tradition and significance. The retro design serves as a visual narrative, weaving together elements that fans cherish and remember. Slated for debut during crucial matches—the women’s team will dawn the kit in the fierce Milan derby against Inter Milan, while the men’s squad will showcase it at home against Genoa—this jersey enhances the celebratory atmosphere right at the heart of Italian football.
A standout aspect of the new jersey lies in its collaborative design process, which highlights the pivotal role of AC Milan’s loyal fanbase. Starting in December last year, fans were actively engaged to select key design elements that resonate with the club’s identity. By voting on historic visuals, supporters contributed to the final design which prominently features the iconic broad red and black stripes that became synonymous with the club from the 1950s onwards. Additionally, the original emblem used in the club’s infancy and the beloved “Diavoletto,” the little devil mascot of the 1980s, were included, invoking nostalgia and pride among die-hard fans.
A Nod to Tradition
The 2024 commemorative shirt is not only aesthetically pleasing but also steeped in tradition. Interestingly, it deviates from contemporary trends by limiting the use of numbers on the back of the shirt solely to match days, thereby prioritizing the kit’s timeless appeal. Furthermore, abandoning commercial sponsorship logos—except for the manufacturer Puma—reaffirms the club’s commitment to authenticity and heritage. The limited-edition jersey is crafted in an exclusive run of 1,899 units, signifying each year of its grand existence.
The jersey is just the highlight of a broader capsule collection that includes a specially designed all-black goalkeeper kit and a vintage-inspired brown leather football. Each piece tells a story, echoing AC Milan’s legacy, while simultaneously arming its players with the tools necessary to continue this grand narrative on the field. The incorporation of these elements ensures that every fan can celebrate this iconic moment in history, not only as ardent supporters but co-participants in the refreshing journey of this historic club.
As AC Milan steps into the next chapter of its storied existence, the dedication to honoring its past with innovation and fan involvement exemplifies how sports can unify communities across generations.