Highlanders FC’s new lifestyle kit has ignited a fierce debate among the club’s passionate fanbase, with opinions sharply divided over the missing shield on its iconic logo.
The jersey, released under the club’s new “1926” merchandising concept, swaps the traditional Bosso crest for a stylised “1926” logo, a move that has delighted some while infuriating traditionalists.
The club launched the range with a vision to merge heritage with fashion, but many fans took to X and Facebook to voice their displeasure.
“This is not Highlanders. Where is the bull? Take this fashion nonsense back to Harare. We want the real crest, not a number,” fumed user @RealBossoMan.
Another fan, @NkullyD, echoed the sentiment, posting, “You don’t ‘rebrand’ history. The crest is sacred. This feels like an away kit for a different team.”
However, the modern design also found its defenders while lifestyle consumers praised the minimalist aesthetic.
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“You guys are stuck in the past! This is fire. Finally, something I can wear to the club without looking like I’m going to a match. It’s clean,” countered @MJ_zw.
Another user, @Bossology, added, “It’s called a lifestyle brand for a reason. The match kit still has the crest. Let the club cook.”
Amid the uproar, Highlanders FC released a statement to clarify the strategy behind the “1926” concept.
“The 1926 Brand is the official retail and lifestyle merchandising platform of Highlanders FC, inspired by the club’s founding year,” the statement read.
“The concept is designed to transform the club’s proud heritage into a strong commercial brand...
“The 1926 logo will operate alongside the traditional Highlanders FC crest, which remains the official sporting emblem of the club.”
The club said while the crest represents the team on the pitch, the “1926” brand targets the lifestyle space with premium products, heritage collections, and limited-edition drops.
“It represents a modern retail evolution of the Highlanders FC legacy,” the statement added.
Highlanders is celebrating 100 years this year, which makes it the oldest football club in Zimbabwe.