Ajax
Founded in Amsterdam in 1900, Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax have become one of the most influential clubs in European football. Named after the legendary Greek hero Ajax, the club developed a celebrated reputation for attacking football, youth development and producing technically gifted players. Their greatest period came during the 1970s, when Ajax helped redefine modern football through the philosophy known as Total Football. The famous white shirt with its broad red central stripe, Amsterdam identity and distinctive image of Ajax the warrior have become enduring symbols of a club whose influence extends far beyond Dutch football.
5 facts you might not know
- Ajax are named after a Greek hero
The club takes its name from Ajax, the warrior of Greek mythology who fought in the Trojan War. - Their famous shirt was created because of a league rule
Ajax originally wore red-and-white striped shirts, but after reaching the top division in 1911 they changed because Sparta Rotterdam already wore a similar kit. - Their old crest literally showed Ajax
From the 1920s, the club badge featured a detailed portrait of the Greek warrior before it was replaced by a more stylised design. - The modern Ajax face is made from just 11 lines
The simplified crest introduced in 1990 depicts the legendary warrior using 11 separate lines — symbolising the 11 players in a football team. - Ajax won three European Cups in a row
Their legendary side captured Europe's premier club competition in 1971, 1972 and 1973, becoming one of the defining teams of the era.
