Football is more than just a sport - it’s a global phenomenon that transcends language, culture, and borders. The history of the game is rich with stories and legends, and some of the most fascinating tales are hidden in the origins of football clubs themselves. Juventus is a prime example of a club with a fascinating history, having been one of the most successful teams in Italian and world football. Their classic black and white kits have become synonymous with the club, but have you ever wondered why? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the origins of the iconic Juventus strip and the surprising role played by England’s oldest professional football club, Notts County.
Juventus is undoubtedly one of the most successful football clubs in the world, boasting a rich history and an army of fans all over the globe. The Bianconeri have won countless titles, dominated the domestic league, and featured some of the most iconic players in the sport. From Cristiano Ronaldo to Alessandro Del Piero, Gianluigi Buffon to Giorgio Chiellini, Juventus has had a legendary roster. However, have you ever wondered why their classic black and white kits have become synonymous with the club?
Believe it or not, the story of Juventus and Notts County is one of the most fascinating in football history. The two sides will forever be intertwined with one another, with the English team being the inspiration for the Italian team's trademark strip. Back in September 2011, Juventus opened their new 41,000-seater stadium with a friendly against then-League One outfit Notts County. While most Italians couldn’t even tell you where the English minnows are based, let alone name any of their players (despite the 1-1 draw), the connection between the two clubs dates back over a century.
Notts County is the oldest professional football club in the world, spreading influence across Europe as football spread throughout the continent. Juventus used to don a pink strip not too dissimilar from their previous away colours, but back in the day, these kits didn’t end up lasting very long. In 1903 the search for a new strip began, and John Savage, an Englishman playing abroad and one of the club’s founding players, was the man to solve the kit crisis.
Savage had links with Notts County and chanced his arm by asking if they would send a replacement kit. When the Magpies said yes, Juventus didn’t just inherit a new strip; they inherited a new identity. Their new kit featured bold black and white stripes that made a striking contrast and would eventually become one of the most iconic football shirts of all time.
Even when the time arrived for a replacement, the Turin side opted to stick with its pattern, confirming that this would be the future path of the club. Notts County might have had modest successes, but they play one of the most integral roles in the sport’s history. They served as a monumental inspiration for the earliest football teams in a whole host of different countries. And now, over a century later, the influence of this historic club can still be seen on the pitch every time Juventus take to the field.
In conclusion, the connection between Juventus and Notts County is not just a story about football kits. It’s a story about how the beautiful game transcends borders and how inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. So the next time you see Juventus sporting their iconic black and white stripes, remember that the story behind the kit is just as fascinating as the team's incredible success.
Football has a unique ability to bring people and communities together, and the story of Juventus and Notts County is a perfect example of how the sport can create unexpected connections and inspire unlikely collaborations. The black and white stripes of Juventus have become a symbol of the club's identity and success, but their origins lie in the humble beginnings of football in England. The legacy of Notts County lives on, not just in the annals of football history, but also in the hearts of Juventus fans around the world who proudly wear the iconic black and white strip. As football continues to evolve and grow, it's important to remember and celebrate the stories and traditions that make the game so special.
