The British & Irish Lions jersey for the 2021 tour of South Africa has been unveiled – with the design celebrating the journey a player must undergo to reach the pinnacle of the game.
Designed and manufactured by the Lions’ official apparel sponsor, Canterbury, the new Pro jersey was unveiled on Thursday and will go on sale in South Africa on Friday.
With the Lions squad recognised as being made up of the best players, the iconic red jersey’s new design features a striking graphic on the shoulders, comprising a multitude of individual pieces which come together to form the image of a lion. Symbolising the origins of the players and those who have helped them to reach the pinnacle of the game, each piece pays homage to every teammate, club coach, family member and friend who helped them along the way.
Canterbury confirmed that the design celebrates the journey a player must undergo to reach the very top of the game, as well as those who have helped them get there.
Commenting on the jersey, Lions coach Warren Gatland said: ‘The jersey looks awesome and I think Lions supporters, as well as the players, are going to love it, too. Canterbury, as we have become accustomed to, have done a great job yet again.
‘Some of the best experiences I’ve had as a Lions coach have been looking out across a stadium ahead of a match and seeing a “Sea of Red” Lions jerseys. Literally entire stands turned red; it’s an incredible thing to witness and creates an atmosphere that is truly unique to the Lions.’
The Pro jersey is the Lions’ most sustainable ever, with the main body made up of 100% recycled polyester and is available in men’s, women’s and junior sizes, allowing supporters to be part of the pride and show their support.
Canterbury has also launched the largest-ever range of Lions’ training and off-field supporter wear, with a total of 112 items. This includes three times as many women’s products than previously and its biggest-ever junior range.
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— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) October 28, 2020