Newcastle were forced to apologise and delete a promotional video for their new third kit, after acknowledging a potentially 'offensive' scene.
The Magpies brought out a number of big names for the launch of their new adidas strip on Tuesday, including singer and avid fan Sam Fender, as well as Alexander Isak, Tino Asprilla and Jonas Gutierrez.
Sandro Tonali has modelled Newcastle's eye-catching new third kit
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Sandro Tonali has modelled Newcastle's eye-catching new third kitCredit: Credit: Instagram: @nufc
Ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, the north east outfit launched the blue, green and orange number, which pays homage to their 1997/98 jersey.
But the short clip was not without it's controversy, after a flag which resembled the Rising Sun flag used by Japanese armed forces in World War Two appeared in the clip.
Though considered part of Japanese history, the flag carries negative connotations in countries such as South Korea, China, Singapore and Russia, who associate it with imperial wartime atrocities.
After being made aware of the video's potentially offensive element, the advert was deleted by the club on all its social media platforms and replaced with an altered version.
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Newcastle then promptly apologised for the inadvertent mistake.
A spokesperson said: "We have been alerted to the appearance of a flag in our recent third kit launch video that could inadvertently cause offence.
“In response, we immediately removed the video from circulation and have taken steps to edit the visual from all future content.
"We sincerely apologise for any offence caused."
After reposting the adapted video, the club clarified their next steps.
Newcastle wrote on social media: "The reaction to our new third kit with Adidas has been special, but the launch video contained a scene that could inadvertently cause offence.
Music star Sam Fender made an appearance in Newcastle's third kit promotional video
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Music star Sam Fender made an appearance in Newcastle's third kit promotional videoCredit: Credit: X: @nufc
There was no shortage of stars in the clip as current goal machine Alexander Isak sat down with former hero Tino Asprilla
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There was no shortage of stars in the clip as current goal machine Alexander Isak sat down with former hero Tino AsprillaCredit: Credit: X: @nufc
Magpies icon Jonas Gutierrez also made an appearance
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Magpies icon Jonas Gutierrez also made an appearanceCredit: Credit: X: @nufc
"We apologise for that. We’ve removed the scene from the film to make sure that as many fans as possible can enjoy it."
Newcastle were understandably keen to clarify they had never intended to cause offence with the initial promotional video.
The Rising Sun flag is currently banned by FIFA at international matches, while South Korea wanted it banned from the 2020 Olympics.
However, organisers at the international showpiece insisted the flag was 'not a political statement', given its wide use in Japan.
Later this month, the Geordies outfit will play matches in both Singapore and South Korea as part of their pre-season tour.
Despite the initial controversy, the club's Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverston stressed the exciting elements of the newly-launched third kit ahead of the new season, as Eddie Howe's side make their return to the Champions League.
Eddie Howe managed to win a trophy and bring Champions League football to Tyneside last season
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Eddie Howe managed to win a trophy and bring Champions League football to Tyneside last seasonCredit: Getty
He 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.
"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.
"Just as importantly, every adult shirt sold direct from the club contributes directly to our Foundation’s work across the North East, reinforcing our commitment to community impact on and off the pitch.”
There will be plenty of opportunity for Newcastle to show off their eye-catching new strip in the 2025/26 campaign.
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In fact, the shirt could get its first outing in competitive action on the opening day of the Premier League season, with the Geordies playing away to Aston Villa on August 16.
They will also get the chance to show off the stylish new number among Europe's elite, with Howe's side discovering their Champions League opponents for next term when the draw for the competition's league phase takes place at the end of August.