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Why is Borussia Dortmund called "Die Schwarzgelben"?

Explained by SportCells · 27 June 2026 · 2 min read

Why is Borussia Dortmund called "Die Schwarzgelben"?

Borussia Dortmund is called "Die Schwarzgelben" due to its black and yellow colors, but what's behind the name and the club's rich history in German football, and how did they become one of the most iconic teams in the world, with a huge following and a strong rivalry with Ruhr neighbors Schalke 04, as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Borussia Dortmund is called "Die Schwarzgelben", which translates to "The Black and Yellow", due to the club's iconic colors. The name is a reference to the team's crest, which features a black and yellow design.

History of the Club

Borussia Dortmund, often known simply as BVB, is a German professional sports club based in Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia. The club is best known for its men's professional football team, which plays in the Bundesliga, the top tier of the German football league system.

The Meaning of Borussia

The name "Borussia" is shared by two of Germany's biggest clubs, Dortmund and Mönchengladbach. The name is a reference to the former German state of Prussia, which was a major European power in the 18th and 19th centuries. The name was adopted by several German clubs, including Dortmund and Mönchengladbach, as a symbol of national pride.

The Club's Crest and Colors

The club's crest features a black and yellow design, which has become iconic in German football. The colors are a reference to the club's nickname "Die Schwarzgelben", and are featured prominently in the team's home kit. For more information on the FIFA World Cup 2026, visit our page for the latest updates and news. You can also check out our teams page for more information on the teams participating in the tournament.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

"Die Schwarzgelben" is German for "The Black and Yellow", and is a reference to the club's iconic colors.

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