Tribal Football

Newcastle apologise for 'offensive' flag in kit video

Newcastle apologise for 'offensive' flag in kit video
Newcastle apologise for 'offensive' flag in kit videoProfimedia

Newcastle United have issued an apology after a promotional video for their new third kit, created in partnership with Adidas, sparked concerns over cultural insensitivity.

The controversy arose from the inclusion of a flag in the footage that appeared to resemble a historically controversial symbol.

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In one scene, fans were seen waving a Rising Sun Flag, a symbol linked to Japan’s Imperial Army during World War II. 

"We have been alerted to the appearance of a flag in our recent third kit launch video that could inadvertently cause offence, " the Magpies wrote in a statement.

"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".