As December 13, 2024, approaches, AC Milan stands on the threshold of a significant milestone: its 125th anniversary. Founded by English expat Herbert Kilpin, the club has evolved from its modest beginnings as “Milan Foot-Ball and Cricket Club” in 1899 into one of Europe’s most prestigious football institutions. With an illustrious history that includes seven European Cup/Champions League victories and 19 domestic league titles, the Rossoneri are set to mark this landmark occasion with a special anniversary kit, reflecting both tradition and modernity.
What sets this anniversary jersey apart is the unprecedented collaboration between AC Milan and its passionate fanbase. By involving supporters in the design process, the club has curated a piece that resonates with its rich heritage. Starting a year prior, the club sought feedback on which historical elements fans felt were essential to the kit’s aesthetic. The outcome was a beautifully crafted shirt that features iconic design traits: the striking red and black stripes reminiscent of the 1950s, the original square emblem from the club’s early days, and the playful “Diavoletto” mascot that evokes nostalgia from the 1980s.
The launch of the anniversary kit promises to be a spectacle in itself. Milan’s classic black and red ensemble will first be debuted by the women’s team during their upcoming clash against city rivals Inter Milan. Following this, supporters will get to see it donned by the men’s squad as they battle Genoa at the revered San Siro stadium—a fitting venue for such a momentous occasion. The appearance of club legends like Franco Baresi, along with contemporary players such as Theo Hernández and Christian Pulisic, adds an extra layer of grandeur to the unveil.
This anniversary kit is not merely an article of clothing; it is a celebration of AC Milan’s legacy. Distinguished by its absence of sponsor logos and featuring player numbers solely on the reverse, the jersey prioritizes tradition over commercialism. Moreover, it forms part of a limited-edition collection, which includes a bespoke all-black goalkeeper kit and a vintage brown leather football—further emphasizing the importance of this anniversary. With only 1,899 units available, the exclusivity of this kit speaks volumes about its intended status as a collector’s item.
As AC Milan prepares to celebrate its 125th birthday, the club stands poised to merge its illustrious past with an ambitious future. By paying homage to its heritage through a thoughtfully designed anniversary kit, the Rossoneri continue to strengthen their bond with fans and reaffirm their position in the pantheon of football greats. This initiative not only commemorates history but also inspires loyal supporters to look forward to the future, as the club continues to forge its path in the world of football.