The “SS” in that style of font is a Nazi symbol for the “Schutzstaffel,” or “protection squads.” Men in this squad considered themselves to be the “racial elite” among Nazis.

The design of the number 44 German national team jersey looks similar to the logo of the Nazi Schutzstaffel (SS). The similarity has set off controversy and finger-pointing. Jersey number 4 will ...

(JTA) — The new line of German soccer jerseys ... 44 is not currently used by any player on either the men’s or women’s teams, but Adidas, the German sportswear company that is the team ...