ATLANTA – The Belgian national football team, the Red Devils, will debut a striking new away kit ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, paying homage to the nation’s rich artistic heritage. The jersey, designed by Adidas, draws inspiration from the surrealist works of Belgian painter René Magritte, blending a retro aesthetic with a modern twist.
The kit features a light blue base, reminiscent of previous Belgian away shirts, but distinguishes itself with the addition of white and rose-colored accents. This unconventional color scheme is a deliberate nod to Magritte’s iconic paintings, aiming to evoke a sense of dreamlike wonder and artistic intrigue. The design incorporates elements of the Belgian Football Association (KBVB) logo and symbols of the sport, such as a football and field lines, subtly woven into the fabric.
Perhaps the most intriguing detail is a phrase printed inside the collar: “Ceci n’est pas un maillot” – a direct reference to Magritte’s famous 1929 painting, “La Trahison des Images” (“The Treachery of Images”), which famously depicted a pipe with the caption “Ceci n’est pas une pipe” (“This is not a pipe”). The phrase challenges perception and invites viewers to question the nature of representation, mirroring the themes explored in Magritte’s art.
This isn’t the first time the KBVB has honored Belgian icons with its kit designs. Previous away shirts have celebrated the country’s cycling tradition (Euro 2016), the Tomorrowland music festival (World Cup 2022), and the beloved comic book character Tintin, created by Hergé (Euro 2024). The Red Devils’ kit choices have develop into a point of national pride, showcasing Belgium’s cultural influence on the global stage.
Adidas’s design team sought to create a shirt that not only looked visually appealing but also sparked conversation and imagination. The rose-colored print, described as resembling bubblegum, adds a playful element to the otherwise sophisticated design. The intention is to create a kit that is both a celebration of Belgian art and a statement of national identity.
Kevin De Bruyne, a key player for the Red Devils, participated in a photoshoot for the new kit, posing with a bowler hat and an apple – a reference to Magritte’s well-known painting, “Le fils de l’homme” (“The Son of Man”). Youri Tielemans also participated, playfully juggling apples in a nod to the artist’s recurring motifs.
The Red Devils will first wear the new kit during a friendly match against the United States on March 28th in Atlanta, Georgia. The match will serve as a crucial preparation opportunity ahead of the World Cup, allowing the team to test the kit in a competitive environment. The collection officially went on sale today, March 20th, at 10:00 AM local time.
This kit represents more than just a change of apparel; it’s a cultural statement. By embracing the surrealist vision of René Magritte, the Red Devils are connecting with a legacy of artistic innovation and challenging conventional expectations. For fans, it’s a chance to wear a piece of Belgian history and celebrate the country’s unique cultural identity on the world’s biggest football stage.
The choice of Magritte is particularly fitting, given his status as a leading figure in the surrealist movement. His work often explored themes of illusion, reality, and the subconscious, prompting viewers to question their perceptions of the world around them. The kit’s design aims to capture this spirit of inquiry and invite fans to engage with the artwork on a deeper level.
The new jersey is available for purchase now, offering fans a chance to own a piece of Belgian football history and artistic expression. It’s a kit that’s sure to turn heads and spark conversations, both on and off the pitch. The Red Devils’ embrace of Magritte’s legacy is a testament to the power of art to inspire and unite.
The team’s preparation for the World Cup continues, with the match against the United States serving as a vital stepping stone. Fans will be eager to see the Red Devils in action, sporting their new kit and carrying the spirit of Belgian surrealism onto the field. The upcoming tournament promises to be a showcase of both athletic prowess and cultural pride.
Keep reading
