The Story of Newell’s Old Boys Kits
Founded in 1903, Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys are one of Argentina’s oldest and most influential football clubs. Their half-red, half-black shirt is instantly recognisable — representing unity and defiance in equal measure. The colours were chosen to honour the English and local heritage of the club’s founder, Isaac Newell, with red symbolising passion and black representing strength.
Over the years, that combination has become synonymous with Rosario’s football identity, inspiring loyalty, rivalry, and some of the finest football talent Argentina has ever produced.
Kit Evolution and Brand Heritage
Newell’s early shirts were hand-sewn and unbranded, but as the club grew, international manufacturers helped elevate their look. Brands such as Adidas, Umbro, Topper, and New Balance have all produced versions of the famous half-and-half design.
The home kit remains one of the most consistent in world football — red on the left, black on the right — while away and third shirts often experiment with white, grey, or gold accents. In recent years, modern fabrics and minimalist trims have refined the traditional look without losing its unmistakable identity.
Each new release still carries a sense of continuity, combining Rosario’s gritty character with South American flair.
Famous Newell’s Old Boys Shirts
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1987/88 Home Shirt – worn during Marcelo Bielsa’s first spell as manager, leading the club to a memorable Primera División title.
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1992 Libertadores Shirt – the red-and-black split design worn during Newell’s run to the Copa Libertadores final.
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2004 Centenary Shirt – celebrating 100 years of the club’s history, featuring gold trim and embroidered founding details.
2013/14 Home Shirt – remembered for the club’s championship-winning campaign led by Maxi Rodríguez.
Little-Known Facts About Newell’s Old Boys Kits
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The name’s origin: The club is named after Isaac Newell, an English teacher who founded one of Argentina’s first schools; “Old Boys” refers to his former students who started the team.
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Messi connection: Lionel Messi spent his youth career at Newell’s, and collectors prize the 1990s home shirts worn during his academy days.
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Rosario rivalry: The red-and-black colours stand in direct contrast to the blue-and-yellow of city rivals Rosario Central, creating one of Argentina’s fiercest derbies — El Clásico Rosarino.
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The Bielsa legacy: The club’s stadium, Estadio Marcelo Bielsa, is named after their legendary coach — a rare honour in world football.
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Colour symmetry: The club has never reversed the red and black halves; keeping red on the left side is a strict tradition.
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Sponsor minimalism: Many of Newell’s most beloved shirts feature subtle or single sponsors, preserving the bold two-tone aesthetic.
Tribute editions: The club occasionally releases special-edition shirts to honour past players, such as Gabriel Batistuta and Ezequiel Ponce, both of whom began their professional careers at Newell’s.
Our Range and Personalisation Options
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Why Newell’s Old Boys Shirts Stand Out
Newell’s shirts are among football’s most striking and historically rich designs. The red and black halves represent not only Rosario’s fierce pride but also Argentina’s broader football passion. Whether you’re a collector or a supporter, wearing a Newell’s Old Boys shirt means carrying forward over a century of history, identity, and relentless ambition.