The Netherlands is a nation deeply connected to the color orange. It is a color that represents their national identity, just as yellow represents Brazilians. The vibrant orange shirts worn by the Dutch national team evoke memories of iconic moments in football history, from the Total Football of 1974 to the triumph of Euro 88.
However, the Dutch have not been without their fair share of kit controversies. Two notable incidents occurred on German soil. In 1974, when the Netherlands faced Uruguay in their first World Cup match in 36 years, Johan Cruyff, who was contracted to Puma, refused to wear Adidas boots, despite the team’s deal with the German manufacturer. After a standoff between the brands and Dutch football bosses, it was decided that Cruyff’s kit would have one of the Adidas stripes removed. This dispute resurfaced 40 years later when Cruyff’s clothing company released a replica of his 1974 jersey, with Cruyff claiming that the stripes belonged to him.
Another shirt controversy arose in 1988 when the Netherlands won Euro 88. Before the tournament, many players and fans criticized the design of the shirt, which featured a geometric pattern. Captain Ruud Gullit even called it “ugly.” However, the Dutch went on to lift the trophy, making the shirt an iconic and highly sought-after item today.
The significance of the color orange for the Netherlands goes beyond football. It stems from the Dutch Royal Family, the House of Orange-Nassau, which has a history dating back almost 500 years. Wearing orange is a source of pride for the Dutch when representing their country.
Designing a kit for the Dutch national team carries great responsibility. Arsenio Lopez, who designed the Dutch 2022 World Cup collection, felt privileged to create something that would be cherished by millions of fans. He took inspiration from Dutch royalty and found a muse in player Memphis Depay, whose lion tattoo symbolized power and confidence. The resulting home shirt featured a flame-like effect, capturing the intensity and passion associated with Dutch football.
Passion and intensity are also exemplified by the Netherlands’ supporters. Their fan marches are a spectacle to behold, and even the players join in the festivities. The atmosphere created by the sea of orange in the stadiums is something that fills former midfielder Bolo Zenden with pride and happiness. He believes that football should be a festival, and the Dutch fans embody that spirit.
In conclusion, the Netherlands’ connection to the color orange runs deep. From kit controversies to iconic moments in football history, the Dutch embrace their national color with unwavering pride. The future of Dutch football may change, but their commitment to orange will always remain steadfast.