11.03.2026
On Saturday, 14 March, Zlín footballers will present unique jerseys, which they will wear at the start of their match against Slavia Prague. This special edition was created to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Tomas Bata, a native of Zlín whose legacy extends beyond business and reminds us that Bata placed great emphasis on sport, believing it to play an important role in people's lives. The special Bata jerseys, which refer to the roots of the football club, will also go on sale, and fans will be able to purchase them as part of the merchandise.
“Tomáš Baťa didn’t just create a globally successful brand. He created a value system that gave Zlín its character. It is a great honor for us to commemorate this anniversary through soccer, a sport that brings people together across generations. The Baťa 150 anniversary match symbolizes that the legacy of hard work, courage, and responsibility to society is still alive. And that it continues, just like our team on the field," explains Zuzana Molková, spokesperson for FC Zlín.
Tomas Bata started out as a shoemaker, but thanks to his courage, systematic approach, and ability to think in context, he built a world-class business. His principles - innovation, leadership, care for employees, and responsibility to the community - remain an inspiration today.
He saw sport as an important part of personal development and character building. "He actively supported physical activities in Zlín, studied the principles of victory and discipline, and believed that sport teaches perseverance, teamwork, and the ability to overcome obstacles. He applied these ideas to his business and everyday life as a path to better performance, health, and a stronger community," explains Gabriela Končitíková, director of the Thomas Bata Foundation.
These values are commemorated by the year-long Bata150 project, organized by the Thomas Bata Foundation on the occasion of this important anniversary. The anniversary of Tomas Bata's birth, which falls on 3 April and has been included on the UNESCO list, is accompanied by a series of events throughout the year in Czechia and Slovakia.
Retro T-shirts are not only a sports symbol, but also a modern tribute to a personality who changed Zlín and the world.
At the same time, a similar initiative recently took place in Zlín in the world of ice hockey. The RI Okna Berani Zlín club organized an auction of a special edition of retro jerseys created to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Tomas Bata. Original game jerseys, including designer packaging, socks, and a commemorative puck, were put up for auction, and fans also had the opportunity to purchase a unique version of the jersey with their own name and number
Retro jerseys are not only a sporting symbol, but also a modern tribute to a personality who changed Zlín and the world.
For more information about the project go to www.bata150.cz.
