The Story Behind Lebanon's Football Shirts
The Lebanon national football team, affectionately known as "the Cedars" (???? ????? in Arabic), has a rich footballing heritage that stretches back to 1933. The team's kit history reflects not just sporting evolution, but the cultural identity and national pride of a nation that has faced significant challenges throughout its history. For fans seeking authentic Lebanon football shirts, understanding the heritage behind these jerseys adds depth to every purchase.
The Evolution of Lebanon's Kit Design
Lebanon's traditional colour scheme draws directly from the national flag, with red serving as the primary home colour and white as the away alternative. This connection to national identity has remained consistent throughout the decades, though the designs themselves have evolved considerably.
The Early Years (1935-1960s)
During their first unofficial match in 1935, Lebanon wore simple white shirts adorned with the Lebanese cedar and the association's name on the chest, paired with black shorts and white socks. By 1940, for their first FIFA-sanctioned match against Mandatory Palestine, the kit had evolved to include a white shirt with a distinctive black collar, black shorts, and striped socks.
The 1960s saw one of Lebanon's most iconic kit designs emerge - a bold red shirt featuring a white horizontal band across the centre, with the green cedar tree prominently displayed in the middle. White shorts and red-and-white striped socks completed this memorable look that many vintage collectors still seek today.
Modern Era Kit Manufacturing
Lebanon's kit journey has seen partnerships with several major sportswear manufacturers. The 2000 Asian Cup, which Lebanon hosted, featured an Adidas kit with white details on the sides, a white collar, white shorts, and red socks - a classic design that marked the nation's first major tournament appearance.
From 2014 to 2022, Lebanon partnered with Capelli Sport, a brand with special significance as it was founded by Lebanese-born entrepreneur George Altirs. This partnership produced some striking designs, including the 2019 campaign kit that featured a darker shade of red for the cedar emblem beneath the team logo.
Since 2023, Spanish sportswear firm Kelme has taken over kit manufacturing duties, bringing contemporary design elements while respecting the traditional red and white colour scheme that defines Lebanese football identity. Previous manufacturers also include Diadora, Joma, and A-Line, each leaving their mark on Lebanon's kit heritage.
Legendary Jerseys in Lebanon's History
The 2011 World Cup Qualifying Shirt
Perhaps no Lebanon jersey carries more significance than the red shirt worn during the historic 2-1 victory over South Korea at the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium on 11 September 2011. With over 40,000 passionate fans in attendance, Lebanon secured their place in the final round of World Cup qualification for the first time in their history. The shirt worn that night represents the pinnacle of Lebanese football achievement and remains one of the most sought-after jerseys among collectors.
The 2000 Asian Cup Host Kit
As hosts of the 2000 AFC Asian Cup, Lebanon participated in their first major international tournament. Despite finishing bottom of their group, the tournament marked a watershed moment for Lebanese football. The Adidas-manufactured red home kit from this era symbolises Lebanon's emergence on the continental stage and remains a popular vintage choice for fans who remember this historic occasion.
The 2019 Asian Cup Victory Shirt
The Capelli Sport jersey worn during Lebanon's first-ever Asian Cup victory – a thrilling 4-1 win over North Korea on 17 January 2019 – holds special significance. Goals from Felix Michel Melki, Hassan Maatouk, and a brace from Hilal El-Helwe secured Lebanon's maiden tournament win, making this shirt a must-have for any serious collector.
Little-Known Facts About Lebanon Kits
The Lebanese cedar symbol has appeared on virtually every national team shirt since 1935, making it one of the most enduring emblems in international football. This ancient tree, which features on Lebanon's national flag, represents immortality, strength, and resilience - qualities the national team embodies in every match.
Lebanon was one of the first nations in the Middle East to establish a formal football administrative body when representatives from 13 football clubs gathered in Beirut's Minet El Hosn district on 22 March 1933 to form the Lebanese Football Association. This pioneering spirit is reflected in the team's commitment to kit design that honours tradition while embracing modern football aesthetics.
The team's goalkeeper shirts have traditionally featured green, the third colour from the Lebanese flag, creating a unique visual identity that distinguishes the last line of defence from the outfield players' red or white jerseys.
During the remarkable 16-game unbeaten streak from March 2016 to September 2018 - which saw Lebanon win eight matches and draw eight - the team wore kits manufactured by Capelli Sport. This period marked Lebanon's highest-ever FIFA ranking of 77th in September 2018, making these particular jerseys a symbol of the team's golden era.
Our Lebanon Football Shirt Collection
At UK Soccer Shop, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of Lebanon football shirts to suit every fan's needs. Our collection includes:
Current Season Kits: Stay up-to-date with the latest Kelme-manufactured home and away shirts, featuring contemporary design elements and cutting-edge fabric technology for optimal comfort and performance.
Retro & Classic Designs: For nostalgic fans and collectors, we stock vintage Lebanon shirts that commemorate significant moments in the Cedars' history, from the 2000 Asian Cup to the famous 2011 World Cup qualifying victory.
Training & Leisure Wear: Complete your Lebanon wardrobe with official training shirts, polo shirts, and casual wear that let you show your support both on match day and in everyday life.
Personalisation Options
Transform your Lebanon shirt into something truly unique with our comprehensive customisation service:
Player Name & Number: Honour your favorite Lebanese stars like Hassan Maatouk, Felix Michel Melki, or any of the national team heroes
Custom Name & Number: Create a personalized jersey with your own name and lucky number
Why Choose UK Soccer Shop for Your Lebanon Shirt?
With decades of experience in international football shirt retail, we've built our reputation on:
Authenticity Guaranteed: Every Lebanon shirt we sell is an official licensed product, never a replica or counterfeit
Competitive Pricing: We offer great value on both current and vintage Lebanon kits
Fast Worldwide Delivery: Get your Lebanon shirt quickly, whether you're in the UK or supporting from abroad
Expert Customer Service: Our team of football shirt specialists can help you find the perfect Lebanon jersey
Secure Shopping: Shop with confidence using our secure payment systems and buyer protection
Explore Related Teams & Competitions
Asian Football Shirts: Discover our extensive collection of international shirts from Asia, featuring teams from across the continent including traditional powerhouses and emerging nations.
Asian Cup Participants: Browse shirts from fellow Asian Cup competitors including Japan football shirts, South Korea football shirts, Iran football shirts, and Saudi Arabia football shirts.
International Football Shirts: Explore our complete range of international football shirts from confederations worldwide, from European giants to South American flair.
Shop our Lebanon football shirt collection today and become part of the continuing story of Lebanese football. With new designs, retro releases, and exclusive offers regularly added to our range, there's never been a better time to show your support for the Cedars.