Bosso's new kit sparks debate, erodes the club's heritage

Highlanders FC's recently launched lifestyle kit has ignited a heated debate among the club's devoted supporters, with reactions sharply split over the absence of the traditional bull crest on the jersey.

Released under the club's new "1926" merchandising concept, the kit replaces the iconic Bosso logo with a stylised "1926" emblem. While some fans have welcomed the modern design, purists argue it erodes the club's heritage.

"This is not Highlanders. Where is the bull? Take this fashion nonsense back to Harare. We want the real crest, not a number," fumed one supporter on X, while another added, "You don't ‘rebrand' history. The crest is sacred. This feels like an away kit for a different team."

Yet, the minimalist design has its defenders. Lifestyle consumers praised the fresh look, arguing it allows fans to represent the club off the pitch. "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," said another fan.

Responding to the uproar, Highlanders FC clarified the strategy behind the "1926" brand. "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 club emphasized that the traditional crest remains the official sporting emblem, while the "1926" logo is reserved for lifestyle products, premium collections, and limited-edition releases. "It represents a modern retail evolution of the Highlanders FC legacy," the statement added.

This year, Highlanders FC celebrates 100 years, cementing its status as the oldest football club in Zimbabwe, a milestone that underscores the club's deep-rooted heritage amid its push into contemporary merchandising.