Mamelodi Sundowns launch their new jersey ahead of the coming season

Mamelodi Sundowns have launched kit that has the traditional look of the club from afar‚ but in the finer detail reflects Downs’ five-year anniversary from their 2016 Caf Champions League success and continued continental ambitions.

Downs have not been known to make major changes to their kit from season to season‚ usually adding a few tweaks here and there.

Accessibility and affordability have been a greater priority while the club’s adherence to their origins of having based their colours on Brazil also takes precedence. The club also seems to feel the yellow‚ green and blue colours are resplendent on their own.

The finer detail on the new Downs shirts depict the rivers‚ deserts and mountain ranges found across Africa‚ the club said.

The kit is competitively priced. The men’s replica jersey will retail at R999 in major sports outlets. In comparison‚ Kaizer Chiefs’ new jersey is priced at R1‚200 in retail outlets‚ and R950 from the club’s DigiStore.

A press release quoted Brett Bellinger‚ marketing director at Downs’ kit sponsor and manufacturer PUMA SA‚ saying each shirt features “a unique traditional hand-printed treatment inspired by African art and fashion”.

He said: “Sundowns are known as Bafana Ba style as they always lead the way in pushing both the football and style culture. We believe the striking new kit will ensure Masandawana remain the envy of many fans and provide a strong statement about Mamelodi Sundowns FC’s African roots‚ aspirations and achievements across SA and the continent.

“The playing kit features the latest PUMA tech seen on the recently launched Manchester City and AC Milan kits, and is made from 100% recycled polyester to ensure PUMA’s continued focus on sustainability follows into football kit development.”

The statement said the “new Mamelodi Sundowns players jersey have advanced PUMA dry cell thermoregulation technology to keep players dry and comfortable. The Mamelodi Sundowns crest appears on the left chest with the PUMA logo on the right as well as on the sleeves.

“There is a contrasted bonded cuff on both sleeves with Sundowns wording on the back neck. The V-neck jersey utilises bonded finishing and stretch tape for extra comfort.

“The raglan sleeve construction has a mesh shoulder panel for additional breathability‚ with a jacquard body map on the back of the jersey for additional ventilation.”

Sundowns’ supporter mobilisation manager Alex Shakoane said: “This unique football jersey pays homage to the natural greatness found across the African continent. Looking at the individual elements on the design‚ they depict the rivers‚ deserts and mountain ranges found all the way from the north right through to the south.

“The launch of this unique shirt marks the fifth year anniversary of Mamelodi Sundowns’ Caf Champions League victory. It represents the clubs ambitions to become the best football club on the continent and share our African artistry with the world.”

The statement said: “The home and away replica jerseys are proudly made in SA and will be available from September 1 at Puma.com‚ PUMA stores‚ Totalsports‚ The Cross Trainer‚ Studio 88‚ Sportsmans Warehouse and selected retailers for R999 each. The home replica jerseys are also available for women (R899) and children (R799).”