Ajax Logo History: Classic Crest Returns

Ajax recently made a big change to its logo history. The club announced that the classic Ajax logo will return permanently starting from the 2025/2026 season. This move celebrates Ajax’s 125th anniversary and fulfills a wish that fans have held for years. It also reflects the club’s DNA and passion for its heritage.

The Classic Ajax Crest Returns

In November 2024, Ajax revealed that it will bring back its classic logo permanently from the 2025/26 season. This decision coincides with the club’s 125th anniversary on March 18, 2025. CEO Menno Geelen said, “We know that most of our fans have wanted this for years. We felt the 125th anniversary was the perfect moment to give the classic logo back to our fans and ourselves.” The classic logo will be officially launched in the 2025/2026 season. By then, the logo will be gradually integrated into Ajax football shirts, buildings and other aspects.

The classic crest, which the club used between 1928 and 1991, features a detailed profile of the Greek hero Ajax. Its return reconnects the club with its rich history and core values.

Fans Celebrate the Return

Fans welcomed the news with excitement. Many shared their joy on social media, cheering that the classic Ajax logo would return permanently. For 34 years, fans had hoped for this moment. It felt like the club truly listened to their wishes. Many fans said things like, “Finally, it’s about time!” and “This is the real Ajax!” One fan commented, “The classic logo reminds me of the club’s most glorious years.” Some even said they fell in love with Ajax because of the old logo. Overall, fans feel that this decision brings them closer to the club than ever before.

The Meaning Behind the Ajax Crest

The Ajax crest shows the Greek hero Ajax in profile. He was a legendary warrior known for his strength. The modern badge uses eleven lines to draw his face, representing the eleven players on a football team. These lines highlight each player on the pitch and pay tribute to the club’s name and spirit.

Why Is the Club Called Ajax?

Ajax gets its name from a hero in Greek mythology. The founders chose Ajax because of his proud warrior story. Ajax Telamon fought in the Trojan War and never lost a battle. Thus, the name stands for strength and courage. This myth inspired the club’s red and white colors and proud motto. There are other teams named after Greek heroes, such as Atalanta in Serie A and Sparta Rotterdam in the Eredivisie.

Ajax Logo Evolution

The Ajax logo has changed several times since the club’s founding. Each change reflects the club’s journey and its impact on Dutch football. Over the years, the logo evolved alongside the club’s success and followed new design trends. Let’s explore this fascinating history.

Early and Inaugural Logo (1900–1911)

In its early years, Ajax used a simple circular badge. It showed a footballer dressed in white with a broad red vertical stripe. The badge also had the words “Amst. Football Club Ajax” in uppercase letters. This design captured the club’s identity at the time.

Evolution and Uniform Changes (1911–1928)

In 1911, Ajax redesigned the logo to match changes in the team’s kit. The footballer now wore black shorts and a red-and-white striped shirt. The badge’s typography changed to a custom sans-serif font with distinctive outlines and curved verticals. This added elegance to the design.

Introduction of the Greek Hero (1928–1991)

As the club grew in reputation and success, the logo featured the Greek hero Ajax in profile. This detailed black-and-white illustration symbolized strength, determination, and warrior spirit. The badge included the word “Ajax” on the left and a small red-and-white shield on the right, representing the club’s colors and heritage.

Modernization and Minimalism (1991–2025)

In 1991, Ajax redesigned its logo to a modern and abstract style. The detailed portrait became a minimalist outline made of eleven lines, representing the eleven players on a team. The red-and-white shield was removed. The typography switched to a bold sans-serif font. This minimalist look aimed for a sleek and contemporary identity. However, some fans felt the logo lost detail and even started a “Give Ajax his face back” campaign.

Return to the Classic Crest (2025–Present)

To celebrate its 125th anniversary, Ajax announced it would return the classic logo from the 1928–1991 era. This move honors the club’s rich history and reconnects with its traditional identity. It also resonates with fans who have long loved the classic emblem. The restored logo will appear on match shirts starting from the 2025/2026 season.

Ajax Logo History Comes Full Circle

Now, the classic crest returns to where it belongs. It reminds everyone of the club’s proud heritage. What do you think about the return?

Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s celebrate together!