Newcastle, Adidas Remove Kit Video Over Flag Backlash

Newcastle United issued a public apology and removed a promotional video for their new third kit after viewers spotted a black-and-white flag with the club crest resembling the controversial Japanese Rising Sun flag. The flag briefly appeared in a video featuring singer Sam Fender and Newcastle players, raising concerns of cultural insensitivity due to the flag's association with Japanese imperialism and wartime atrocities. The club deleted the video from all platforms and released an edited version, stating their intent was for all fans to enjoy the launch. The incident is particularly sensitive as Newcastle plans a pre-season tour in South Korea and Singapore, where the flag symbolizes past oppression. Newcastle emphasized the inclusion was inadvertent and apologized for any offense caused. Adidas also removed related promotional content in response to the backlash.