The Italian club launched its new alternative kit featuring the traditional red stripe of the Millonario and the inscription "Eternal friendship," in recognition of the historic bond that unites both institutions since the Superga tragedy
The origin of this bond dates back to May 4, 1949, when the plane carrying the Torino team back from Lisbon crashed into the Basilica of Superga. The accident resulted in the deaths of the 31 people on board, including most of the renowned "Grande Torino", the team that dominated Italian football and was the backbone of the national team.
Moved by the tragedy, River decided to travel to Italy just a few weeks later to play a charity friendly against the so-called Torino Symbol, a team made up of players from various Italian clubs. The match, held on May 26, 1949, served to raise funds for the families of the victims and has forever been etched in the memory of the Italian club as an unprecedented gesture of solidarity.
Since then, both institutions have maintained a close relationship, with mutual tributes and various initiatives to remember that episode. Even, the Millonario holds a prominent place within the Torino museum, where the value of that trip made by the team known as "La Máquina," which included players like Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ángel Labruna, and Amadeo Carrizo, is recognized.
Now, in the year that River celebrates its 125th anniversary, Torino has once again highlighted that bond with a jersey that transcends the sporting realm and recalls a story of respect, gratitude, and brotherhood that remains relevant more than seven decades later.
There are stories in football that transcend results and the passage of time. Some arise from great sporting achievements, while others, like the one that connects River and Torino, emerged during one of the most painful moments in the history of this sport. More than seven decades later, that bond was once again reflected in a very special tribute.
The Italian club presented its new away jersey for the 2026/27 season, a design inspired by the Millonario that celebrates the friendship between both institutions. The shirt features a red stripe on a white background, clearly referencing River, while retaining the traditional maroon color on the collar and sleeves. Additionally, it incorporates the inscription "Eternal friendship" and an emblem that merges the historic bull of the Italian club with the silhouette of the River Plate shield.
"Today that red stripe crosses my maroon, like a hug that never ends", published Torino. They also shared other phrases such as "Two colors, two peoples, one passion" and "For our eternal friendship, thank you brother", reinforcing the meaning of the tribute.
