Roger Hampel
Photo Credit: San Diego FC
San Diego FC, set to make its MLS debut in the 2025 season, achieved a major milestone by breaking the record for most jerseys sold by an expansion team within the first 24 hours of release. This accomplishment, announced on December 13, 2024, highlights the strong anticipation surrounding the club's entry into Major League Soccer and underscores the significant engagement with the local fanbase.
Details of the Inaugural San Diego FC Jersey
The inaugural jersey, developed in partnership with adidas, incorporates design elements inspired by San Diego’s coastal and cultural identity. The primary Azul color symbolizes the ocean meeting the sky, reflecting the city’s scenic coastline, while Chrome details add a modern touch. Gradient side stripes represent the diversity of San Diego’s neighborhoods, a central theme in the club’s community-driven ethos.
Unique features include a ‘Chrome and Azul’ Jock Tag and a ‘State of Flow’ Tag on the back collar, emphasizing the club’s lifestyle-focused branding. Limited-edition versions of the jersey include an ‘Inaugural Season’ Jock Tag and are packaged in commemorative boxes, available exclusively at the team’s official retail store, Eighteen Threads, in Mission Valley Mall.
Partnerships and Fan Engagement
The success of the jersey launch is bolstered by a collaboration with DIRECTV, the club’s first-ever jersey sponsor. The DIRECTV logo appears prominently in Chrome across the front of the jersey. Additionally, MLS’s partnership with Apple TV adds a distinctive touch, featuring a custom-designed sleeve patch inspired by San Diego FC’s branding. This initiative aligns with MLS’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, offering fans a personalized representation of their club’s identity.
Significance of the Record
Breaking the jersey sales record for an MLS expansion team demonstrates the enthusiasm and market potential for San Diego FC. It reflects the club’s effective engagement strategies and the broader appeal of its inaugural branding. This achievement also positions San Diego FC as a strong contender in the league, both in terms of commercial success and community impact.
What’s Next for San Diego FC?
The jersey launch marks just the beginning of San Diego FC’s journey in MLS. Leading up to the team’s first season in February 2025, fans can participate in events such as the Chrome Ball Cup at Snapdragon Stadium, which celebrates the community with tournaments and fan activities.