'Insensitive and offensive' Prince Albert Raiders jersey to be discontinued immediately
'We regret this uniform design was approved and sincerely apologize,' WHL Commissioner says
An alternate jersey released by the Western Hockey League's Prince Albert Raiders has been discontinued due to its offensive logo a day after being unveiled online.
The uniform featuring an old Raiders design was met with immediate backlash after being announced on the club's Twitter account on Friday night with the caption "throwing it back for our thirds."
The image on the jerseys appeared to be based on a previous team logo introduced in 1982, which depicts an Arabian raider character holding a sword and a hockey stick.
On Saturday night, the WHL released a statement confirming the jersey has been "discontinued effective immediately."
"We recognize the dated design is insensitive and offensive. After consultation with the Prince Albert Raiders, this uniform and brand will be discontinued effective immediately," Robison said.
"On behalf of the WHL and the Prince Albert Raiders, we regret this uniform design was approved and sincerely apologize for any harm it may have caused."
The statement also noted that there will be no further comment from the WHL or the team.
The team previously sparked controversy and faced similar criticism in November 2014 upon revealing a new mascot with the same design, which was ultimately pulled later that same month.
With files from The Canadian Press
