The Magpies were promoting their new third kit on social media but replaced their initial video with an amended version so 'as many fans as possible can enjoy it'
20:12, 01 Jul 2025Updated 20:12, 01 Jul 2025
split of deleted screenshot from Newcastle's promotional video for third kit [left] and Rising Sun flag [right]
The clip of two fans holding a flag was removed(Image: NUFC/X)
Newcastle United have apologised for inadvertently including an "offensive scene" in a promotional video used to launch the club's new third kit for next season.
The footage, featuring singer Sam Fender as well as Magpie player Alexander Isak, showed a flag that some viewers may have taken offense with, according to the club. This original video was quickly deleted by the club on all its social media channels and an adapted version posted in its place.
Newcastle said in a statement: "The reaction to our new third kit with Adidas has been special, but the launch video contained a scene that could inadvertently cause offence. We apologise for that."
Newcastle supporter Sam Fender starring in the video
Newcastle supporter Sam Fender stars in the video(Image: NUFC/X)
They added: "We've removed the scene from the film to make sure that as many fans as possible can enjoy it."
The flag in question appeared to be a black and white homage to the Japanese 'Rising Sun' flag.
Article continues below
At one moment in the now-deleted video, two people can be seen holding up the flag and laughing together.
The flag was used by the Japanese Imperial Navy and military and is viewed by some, in particular people in South Korea and China, as a reminder of the country's past wartime aggression.
A soldier holds a Rising Sun flag during the military review at the Ground Self-Defence Force's Asaka training ground on October 27, 2013
The Rising Sun flag is seem by many as an unwanted reminder of Japan's past imperialism(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
During the build-up to the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, South Korea wanted the flag banned.
However, the organisers said at the time that it is "widely used in Japan" and is "not a political statement". Despite this, the flag is banned by FIFA for international matches.
Many atrocities were committed by the Japanese military during the war, which saw them occupy many parts of Asia as well as aligning with the Nazis and Italy.
Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak wearing Newcastle's new third kit(Image: NUFC/X)
Yet the flag, which features a red disc with 16 red rays, is a part of Japanese history and is used as a traditional symbol, even appearing in adverts and on products. Its usage dates back centuries, but it wasn't until World War 2 that it largely gained its modern controversial reputation.
Following the release of the initial video, Newcastle officially launched their third kit on Tuesday (July 1). The kit is described as a “modern tribute to the iconic 97/98 third kit”.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
The Magpies stated: “The jersey features a striking combination of burnt orange and deep green set against a navy backdrop, for a stylish take on a renowned classic and a must-have for fans and collectors."
Chief commercial officer Pete Silverstone said: “This third kit is a powerful blend of past and present – a bold design that reflects both our proud history and the exciting journey ahead. Working closely with adidas, we’ve created something that we hope will resonate deeply with our global supporters, bringing back an iconic look with a modern twist.
Tino Asprilla and
Magpies legend Tino Asprilla stars in the video(Image: NUFC/X)
“There’s a real pride in wearing the trefoil – a symbol that connects generations of fans and players. Our passionate global fanbase will see this and wear it with pride, especially as we return to the UEFA Champions League for the second time in three years.”
The Magies are set begin their pre-season with a friendly against Celtic on July 19, where they will debut their new third kit. This is followed with the games in Korea against the K-League XI in Suwon and fellow Premier League team Tottenham in Seoul’s World Cup stadium.
Article continues below
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for ournewsletters.