Washington, D.C.’s, NFL franchise will be changing the team’s name in light of events across the nation and feedback from fans and others a part of the football community.
The franchise released a statement on Thursday urging fans and the media to use the new name pending the adoption of a permanent one.
“For updated brand clarity and consistency purposes, we will call ourselves the ‘Washington Football Team’ pending adoption of our new name. The Redskins name and logo will officially be retired by the start of the 2020 season,” the franchise said.
It added, “We encourage fans, media and all other parties to use ‘Washington Football Team’ immediately.”
On July 13, the franchise said the team will retire their Redskins name and logo amid pressure to change their name as a result of criticism from Native American rights groups claiming it is racist, as IJR previously reported.
According to the franchise, the decision to use the name “Washington Football Team” allows the team to undertake a rebranding process to include input from the football community as a whole.
“To date, we have been pleased to see so many people putting forward their vision of what the new name and design should be on their social media channels and we look forward to including their feedback as this process progresses,” the franchise said.
It continued, “Starting tomorrow and over the next 50 days, we will begin the process of retiring all Redskins branding from team properties whether it be FedExField, Redskins Park, other physical and digital spaces.”
The franchise is hopeful the rebranding process will be completed by September 13, the team’s home opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
New home uniforms will be worn during Week 1 and away uniforms during Week 2.
Merchandise will be available for fans to purchase at Fanatics and NFL Shop within the next few days.