Adidas banned the order of the jersey of Germany with the number 44 because of the similarity with the Nazi symbol

Adidas has banned ordering the jersey of the German football team with the number 44 because of its similarity to the symbol used by the Nazi SS units during the Second World War, writes the British "Guardian".

The Schutzstaffel (SS), the paramilitary organization of Adolf Hitler's Third Reich, was charged with carrying out the industrialized genocide of Jews across Europe.

Concerns about the jerseys were originally raised by historian Michael Koenig, who said the kit design was "highly questionable".

Germany's away shirt also caused controversy due to its pink color. While some say it reflects the diversity of Germany, critics claim it is not in line with tradition and is an attempt by the Football Association (DFB) to profit.

Adidas spokesman Oliver Brugen denied that the kit's resemblance to Nazi symbols was intentional.

"We as a company stand against xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in every form. We will block the personalization of jerseys," said Brugen.

Designed in 1929, the SS symbol became synonymous with some of the worst crimes committed by the Nazis. Members of the SS were responsible for guarding concentration camps, interrogating traitors and running camps like Auschwitz, where more than a million people were killed.

This year's European Football Championship will be held in Germany, and the matches will be played in 10 different cities. It will start on July 14 when the hosts play against Scotland.