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Why does Barcelona play in blue and red?

Explained by SportCells · 27 June 2026 · 2 min read

Why does Barcelona play in blue and red?

Discover the fascinating history behind Barcelona's iconic blue and red kit, exploring the theories and legends surrounding the club's colours, from Joan Gamper to the Merchant Taylors rugby team.

Barcelona plays in blue and red, a colour combination that has become synonymous with the club. The reason behind this choice is not entirely clear, but several theories have emerged over the years.

Introduction to Barcelona's Colours

Barcelona's blue and red kit is one of the most iconic in football, but the story behind the colours is not well-known. While there is no absolute certainty, the club supports the theory that the colours come from the Merchant Taylors rugby team in Liverpool.

History of the Colours

The Witty brothers, who attended the school, proposed the colours of their school team, and Joan Gamper, the club's founder, agreed to the idea. Gamper had previously worn a similar strip with Basel in 1896, which may have influenced his decision.

Evolution of the Kit

The kit has undergone several changes over the years, with the shorts initially being white, then black, and finally blue. The colours have always been used on the team kit, especially the shirt.

Cultural Significance

The colours blue and garnet have become an integral part of Barcelona's identity, with the club being known as the "equip blaugrana" (blue and garnet team). The colours are also closely tied to the region of Catalunya, with the yellow and red combo being a common sight in the area.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

The colours blue and garnet represent the club and its values, and have been used on the team kit for over 100 years.

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