Bayer 04 Leverkusen and New Balance have unveiled the club’s official 2025-26 home jersey, marking the start of a dynamic new chapter. Combining heritage, innovation, and technical performance, the new kit reflects both the rich history of the Werkself and a forward-looking partnership with the American sportswear brand. It’s a design built for the pitch but destined to be appreciated by football culture enthusiasts around the globe.
Design and Technical Features
The 2025-26 home kit stays true to Leverkusen’s iconic colour palette of black and red but introduces a fresh interpretation. A series of fine red lines, composed of elongated cross patterns, run vertically from top to bottom across the shirt, subtly merging into the deep black background. This dotted gradient effect creates visual depth while retaining a sleek and modern aesthetic.
The Elite version of the jersey offers a close-fitting silhouette tailored to high-performance play. Crafted from 90% recycled polyester and 10% elastane, the fabric ensures lightweight comfort, stretch, and durability. Integrated NB Dry technology provides advanced moisture management, while honeycomb mesh panels enhance breathability, ensuring players and supporters stay cool in all conditions. Additional detailing includes a red-trimmed collar and sleeve cuffs, tonal red club and manufacturer logos, and the sponsor BarmeniaGothaer presented in clean white lettering. The neck is finished with the word “Werkself” in red, reinforcing the club’s identity.
History and Inspiration
This jersey draws inspiration from Bayer Leverkusen’s most recognisable symbol – the world-famous Bayer Cross. The subtle cross motifs across the shirt celebrate the club’s deep historical roots while signalling a bold new era. As New Balance’s first partnership with a professional German club, the kit represents both a fresh design language and a nod to tradition, reflecting the ambition and energy of the Werkself.
Markus Breglec, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, commented:
“We are more than excited to go into the next chapter of the club with New Balance as our new kit supplier. Our new home jersey combines the design strength and innovative craftsmanship of New Balance with the spirit of our club and the inspiration of our fans. We can hardly wait for the new season to start and see all the Werkself teams under the Cross in this brilliant kit.”
Usage and Debut
The home jersey will be worn throughout the 2025-26 Bundesliga season and in domestic and European competitions. Its official debut is expected during the club’s pre-season fixtures and promotional campaign, with fans eagerly awaiting the moment the team steps onto the pitch under the Cross in this striking new look.
Did You Know?
- This is New Balance’s first-ever kit for a professional German football club.
- The design incorporates elongated crosses as a tribute to the Bayer Cross, one of the most iconic emblems in football and industry.
- More than 90% of the materials used in the Elite version are recycled, underlining the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
