Red Bull's latest takeover of the Japanese club Ōmiya Ardija has sparked controversy after the unveiling of their all-new club crest.
We will respect the team name and club colors and actively take on new challenges based on the 26-year history that the club has built up
Red Bull Takeover: A Controversial New Logo for Omiya Ardija
After the takeover in August 2024, Red Bull said that they would "respect the team name and club colors." Despite that, the redesign has removed the iconic squirrel mascot—a key symbol linked to the club’s identity and almost everything else. The new logo bears a striking resemblance to that of RB Leipzig, with only a border added, completely erasing the club's heritage.
The Fate of the Club’s Identity Already Happened in Brazil
While Red Bull has promised to preserve the club’s traditional navy and orange colors, fans are left questioning whether these will remain or if the brand’s familiar red and white palette will eventually dominate. This shift is reminiscent of what happened to Red Bull Bragantino in Brazil, where the club's original white and black colors were replaced with red and white kits.
The announcement pictures show the club's navy and orange colors, which is a good sign that the club will not be losing its colors soon.
Footy Headlines expects the first Omiya Ardija jerseys under the Red Bull ownership to have the traditional colors of navy and orange. Future season shirts might see a shift towards Red Bull's colors - as for Bragantino in Brazil.
Will the iconic Ardija colors survive, or will Red Bull’s branding gradually erase the club’s history? Let us know in the comments below.