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Forest Green Rovers new kit faces fan criticism

Forest Green Rovers unveiled their controversial new vegan kits, sparking backlash from supporters.

July 22, 2025 at 10:37 AM
blur Fans horrified by club's new kit 'designed by Year 11 on work experience'

Forest Green Rovers reveal their controversial new kits for the 2025-26 season.

Forest Green Rovers face backlash over new vegan kit designs

Forest Green Rovers have introduced their new kits for the 2025-26 season, and reactions from fans have been largely negative. Known for their unique approach to sustainability, the National League club aims to promote eco-friendly practices in football. This season's kits are made from fully vegan materials and designed for sustainability, but the bright colors and bold leopard print have left many underwhelmed. Online comments reflect disappointment, with some fans comparing the design to work produced by high school students on work experience. Despite the criticism, club officials assert their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Forest Green's chairman Dale Vince highlighted the importance of using plant-based dyes and recyclable materials. Alongside the kit launch, the club has also initiated a program offering football tickets to patients suffering from mild depression, emphasizing community engagement and mental well-being.

Key Takeaways

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Forest Green Rovers launched a new vegan kit for the 2025-26 season.
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Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly negative, describing the designs as poor.
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The club emphasizes sustainability, using plant-based dyes and fully recyclable materials.
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Chairman Dale Vince defended the design as bold and reflective of their eco-friendly mission.
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The club also initiated a unique program offering football tickets on prescription for mental health.
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Community engagement is a key focus alongside environmental innovation.

"We like to push the boundaries on sustainability issues, including what our shirts are made from."

Dale Vince, chairman of Forest Green Rovers, emphasizes the club's commitment to sustainability.

"This is possibly the worst kit ever released."

A frustrated fan expresses their disappointment with the new design.

"This kit is the most visible demonstration yet of Forest Green Rovers' pioneering approach to sustainability."

Alex Markland from The Vegan Society highlights the importance of the new kit.

"When you play football, you often go out and socialise after."

Dr. Simon Opher discusses the social benefits of attending games for mental health.

The release of Forest Green Rovers' new kits underscores a significant tension in modern sports: the balance between environmental sustainability and fan identity. While many applaud the club's commitment to being the greenest football team in the world, the outcry from fans suggests that innovation may come at the cost of traditional aesthetics. This backlash not only reflects differing priorities between club management and supporters but also signals a broader challenge in the sports market. When sustainability efforts are perceived as gimmicky, they risk alienating the very audience they aim to engage. The club's dual initiatives focus not just on a new kit but also on mental health support, showcasing a forward-thinking approach that other teams might learn from, even amidst public dissatisfaction.

Highlights

  • Innovation should never sacrifice tradition when sports are concerned.
  • Sustainability is great, but fans need to feel a connection to their team.
  • A football kit is more than clothing; it's an identity.
  • When boldness is met with resistance, growth can be stunted.

Key risks associated with new kit designs

The backlash over the club's new kit highlights potential risks in alienating fans while promoting sustainability. This could impact club support and attendance. Additionally, the mental health initiative faces scrutiny in its effectiveness and public reception.

As football continues to evolve, teams must find ways to align sustainable practices with fan expectations.

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