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MLS and NWSL Crests: Among the Most Beautiful in the World

By Arthur Fernandes

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - JULY 25: Leonardo Campana #9 of Inter Miami CF battles against Osvaldo Alonso #6 of Atlanta United \2h during the Leagues Cup 2023 match between Inter Miami CF and Atlanta United at DRV PNK Stadium on July 25, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - JULY 25: Leonardo Campana #9 of Inter Miami CF battles against Osvaldo Alonso #6 of Atlanta United \2h during the Leagues Cup 2023 match between Inter Miami CF and Atlanta United at DRV PNK Stadium on July 25, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /
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In the world of soccer, fans’ passion often extends beyond the pitch, reaching the design and aesthetics of their favorite club crests. Recently, the British website FourFourTwo released a list of the “100 Most Beautiful Crests in the History of World Soccer,” and the rankings of MLS (Major League Soccer) and NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League) teams have not failed to generate discussions and praise.

FourFourTwo, an authority in the world of soccer, unveiled a ranking that celebrates the creativity and history behind soccer club crests worldwide. In this list, the beauty of colors and symbols takes center stage, demonstrating that crests are more than just trademarks; they are visual expressions of pride and identity for each team.

In the tenth position, we find Atlanta United, a relatively young club founded in 2014. Their choice of red and black, paying homage to other city sports teams, and the touch of gold in reference to the 1996 Olympics, illustrate the connection between the city’s history and soccer.

PORTLAND, OREGON – AUGUST 20: Sophia Smith #9 of Portland Thorns FC controls the ball against the North Carolina Courage during the second half at Providence Park on August 20, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OREGON – AUGUST 20: Sophia Smith #9 of Portland Thorns FC controls the ball against the North Carolina Courage during the second half at Providence Park on August 20, 2023 in Portland, Oregon. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images) /

In 29th place, Chicago Fire is honored for its direct connection to a historic event, the great Chicago fire of 1871. Their old crest, featuring elements of fire and flames, evoked the bravery of firefighters, while the new crest, with its indie style, is a statement of modernity.

In the 46th position, Inter Miami is credited for its carefully designed image to appear European, historical, and elegant, following the leadership of David Beckham. Their crest with two herons and the sun in the background is a bold expression of the city’s identity.

Minnesota United, in 60th place, might surprise with the choice of a bird in their crest, but its magnificence and the six-pointed star are elements that stand out, even for a relatively young club.

New England Revolution, in 61st place, maintains a crest reminiscent of MLS’s past, but its resilience and strange attraction over time make it a worthy choice.

The women’s team, OL Reign, in 65th place, represents the beauty of simplicity and majesty in its crest, with the lion’s head and swirling ornaments.

Lastly, Portland Thorns, in 73rd place, stands out as a women’s team with its unique identity, represented by a crown of thorns protecting a central rose, evoking both delicacy and power.

FourFourTwo deserves applause for bringing to the forefront the importance of soccer club crests in a world where aesthetics and fans’ passion intertwine. This list is a tribute to the rich history and visual diversity of world soccer, reminding us that behind these crests are stories of passion, tradition, and creativity that captivate fans worldwide.

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