Crystal Palace have introduced a dramatic new look for the upcoming season, replacing their long-standing red-and-blue striped home shirt with a predominantly white design inspired by one of the club’s most memorable eras.
The decision marks a significant departure from the identity supporters have become accustomed to seeing at Selhurst Park over recent decades.
Classic Sash Returns for Anniversary Celebration
The new home kit pays tribute to the famous sash shirt first introduced in the mid-1970s, a design associated with Palace’s memorable run to the FA Cup semi-finals in 1976.
The club is reviving the look to commemorate 50 years since the sash first became part of its history.
This latest version features a white base with a bold diagonal red-and-blue sash running across the chest.
White pinstripes have been added within the sash, while a subtle chequered pattern forms the background of the shirt.
The sleeves continue the colour theme with red and blue striping, also highlighted by fine white pinstripes.
Retro Elements Extend Beyond the Shirt
The vintage inspiration continues with the return of Crystal Palace’s circular crest, a badge originally worn between 1973 and 1987.
The club has also paired the shirt with white shorts and mostly white socks decorated with red and blue hoops to complete the retro aesthetic.
Although Palace have occasionally revisited the sash design for away kits over the years, this is the first time since the 1980s that it will be worn as the club’s home strip at Selhurst Park.
Mixed Reaction From Supporters
Despite the nostalgic concept, the launch has generated divided opinions among supporters.
Many fans welcomed the tribute to the club’s past but questioned several design choices rather than the decision to wear white itself.
The most common criticism centred on the size of the retro club crest, with many believing it appears too small against the shirt.
Others argued that the prominent sponsor logo dominates the front of the jersey, making the badge less noticeable.
The addition of white pinstripes also proved unpopular with some supporters, who felt they distracted from the simplicity of the original sash design.
Social media quickly filled with contrasting opinions, with some describing the remake as underwhelming while others remained undecided about the overall appearance.
European Success Highlighted in Launch
Palace also used the unveiling to celebrate their recent continental achievement.
The launch revealed a special Europa League sleeve badge that will be worn during European fixtures this season, featuring the competition logo alongside wording recognising the club as the 2026 UEFA Conference League champions.
The addition serves as a reminder of Palace’s historic success, which secured their place in this season’s Europa League campaign.
Current Stars and Club Legends Feature in Reveal
The launch video brought together representatives from multiple generations of Crystal Palace.
Academy prospects Joel Drakes-Thomas and Jamila Toure narrated the production, while first-team players including Eddie Nketiah, Adam Wharton, Tyrick Mitchell, Oscar Mingueza and Jaydee Canvot showcased the new strip.
Former Palace favourites Vince Hilaire, Dave Swindlehurst, Billy Gilbert, Darren Ambrose and Mark Bright also appeared, reinforcing the connection between the modern squad and the club’s history.
Members of the women’s team, including recent signing and former England international Beth England, were also involved in the presentation.
Teasers Built Anticipation Across South London
Before the official announcement, Palace gradually hinted at the return of the sash through a series of promotional campaigns.
Mysterious social media posts and billboard displays across South London fuelled speculation among supporters before the full kit was finally revealed.
The new home shirt is priced from £65 for adults, while matching shorts are available separately for £35.
Summary
Crystal Palace have unveiled a bold new home kit that revives the club’s iconic white sash design for the first time at Selhurst Park in more than four decades.
While the anniversary tribute has been praised for celebrating Palace’s heritage, the shirt’s pinstripes, understated retro badge and prominent sponsor logo have divided opinion among supporters.
The launch also celebrated the club’s European success and featured current players, club legends and members of the women’s team as Palace prepare for the new season.
