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Why does Belgium's team nickname translate to "Red Devils"?

Explained by SportCells · 27 June 2026 · 2 min read

Why does Belgium's team nickname translate to "Red Devils"?

Discover why Belgium's national football team is nicknamed the Red Devils, a name that originated from their red jerseys and impressive speed on the pitch, reminiscent of Belgian engineer and racing driver Camille Jenatzy.

Belgium's national football team is nicknamed the "Red Devils" due to their red jerseys and impressive speed on the pitch. The origin of the name dates back to the early 20th century, specifically to a match against the Netherlands in 1906, where the Belgian team wore red jerseys and won 5-0, impressing the editor-in-chief of "La Vie sportive", Pierre Walckiers, who compared their speed to that of Camille Jenatzy, a Belgian engineer and racing driver.

History of the Nickname

The Belgian national team has a long history, dating back to their maiden match in 1904 against France. The team has participated in several major football competitions, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championships. The nickname "Red Devils" has been associated with the team since the early 20th century and has become an integral part of their identity.

The Significance of the Nickname

The nickname "Red Devils" is not only a reference to the team's red jerseys but also a testament to their speed and agility on the pitch. The team's impressive performances over the years have earned them a reputation as one of the top teams in international football. The nickname has become synonymous with Belgian football and is recognized by fans around the world.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

The nickname "Red Devils" originated from the team's red jerseys and impressive speed on the pitch, which was compared to that of Camille Jenatzy, a Belgian engineer and racing driver.

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