FK Partizan Belgrade Crest History
The crest of FK Partizan Belgrade has evolved alongside the club's remarkable history while consistently preserving its connection to the Yugoslav Partisan movement and its famous black-and-white colours. Although the design has been modernised several times since the club's foundation in 1945, the iconic red star has remained the central element of Partizan's identity.
The club's first emblem, used between 1945 and 1947, was a simple red five-pointed star bearing the initials "JA" (Jugoslovenska Armija – Yugoslav Army). The badge reflected Partizan's origins as the football club of the Yugoslav People's Army shortly after the Second World War.
In 1947, Partizan adopted a more elaborate crest featuring the red star surrounded by a blue ring bearing the words "Jugoslovenska Armija", framed by laurel branches and topped with a stylised red flame. This design symbolised victory, military heritage and the club's close association with the army.
During the 1950s, the badge underwent several refinements as the club gradually transitioned from a military institution to a civilian sports society. The wording surrounding the central star changed to "Partizan Jugoslovenska Armija" and later "Partizan Sportsko Društvo," while the overall circular design and the symbolic flame were retained.
A major redesign arrived in 1958, introducing the distinctive black-and-white circular crest that would become synonymous with FK Partizan. The modern badge featured the red star at its centre, surrounded by the club's name and supported by a stylised black-and-white shield beneath the flame. This version accompanied Partizan through many of its greatest domestic and European successes.
Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, the crest was updated in 1992 to replace references to Yugoslavia with the words "Fudbalski Klub", while preserving the famous red star, black-and-white colour scheme and flame. This ensured continuity with the club's rich history while reflecting the new political reality.
In 2008, two silver stars were added above the crest to commemorate the club's 20 Serbian league championships, marking another milestone in Partizan's history. A decade later, in 2018, the stars were changed to grey, creating the version that remains in use today.
