Full Breakdown
Middlesbrough FC Unveils New Club Crest for 150th Anniversary
10/17/2025, 1:16:38 AM
Introduction of the New Crest
Middlesbrough Football Club has officially unveiled a new club crest that will be adopted for the 2026-27 season, coinciding with the club's 150th anniversary. The design process, which began in March 2024, involved extensive consultation with fans, culminating in a roundel shape reminiscent of the beloved 1986 crest. This new emblem incorporates local landmarks and reflects the club's rich history, aiming to resonate with both long-time supporters and new fans.
Design Process and Fan Engagement
The development of the new crest was a collaborative effort, with over 4,000 supporters participating in two detailed surveys during an 18-month consultation period. Middlesbrough's marketing manager, Matthew Barber, emphasized the importance of fan input throughout the process, stating, “Consulting with fans was massively important. It was item one on the agenda.” The design, led by Middlesbrough-born graphic designer Andrew Patterson, features a lion rampant, a symbol of the club, along with elements representing the River Tees and Roseberry Topping.
Key Features of the Crest
The new badge prominently displays "Middlesbrough Football Club" and the founding year, 1876, across a white band, a design element introduced under manager Jack Charlton. The lion's tongue is shaped to reflect the meanders of the River Tees, while the mane incorporates the profile of Roseberry Topping. Additionally, a special anniversary version of the crest will feature a gold-on-red design inspired by the Ayresome Park gates, marking the club's significant milestone.
Official Statements and Responses
Middlesbrough FC expressed excitement about the new crest, highlighting its connection to the club's heritage and the input from supporters. The club stated, “We’re delighted to introduce Boro’s new crest. The result of an extensive process with Boro supporters at its heart, the new crest will be introduced permanently from the start of the 2026/27 season.” The club aims to honor its past while looking forward to the future.
Criticism and Opposition
While many fans have praised the new design, some have expressed mixed feelings. Comments from supporters range from enthusiasm about the return to a circular badge to critiques suggesting it could have been improved. One fan remarked, “It’s a bloody lovely, and rightful return to a circular design,” while another noted, “I think it could’ve been so much better.” This feedback highlights the diverse opinions within the fanbase regarding the new crest.
What's Next
The new crest will officially be implemented in June 2026, with the main celebrations for Middlesbrough's 150th anniversary planned for October 2026. The club is expected to provide further details on these celebrations as the date approaches, marking a significant chapter in its history.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Boro's marketing manager Matthew Barber said: “It’s an exciting day for us to officially unveil the new club crest.” — Matthew Barber, Marketing Manager
- “He said: “Hopefully what we’ve done is listen to the fans first and foremost.” — Andrew Patterson, Designer
- “We’re really proud of the finished product, and Andy should be really proud of it as well.” — Matthew Barber, Marketing Manager
- “It was always going to be a simplistic design (that’s just the way things are going).” — Anonymous Fan
This new crest not only symbolizes Middlesbrough FC's storied past but also aims to foster a deeper connection with its supporters as the club embarks on a new era.
