ALKHOBAR, 20 June 2006 — Color is important in the corporate world. Many companies, particularly technology and finance companies, choose blue as their corporate color, as it helps project an intellectual image. For example IBM, Dell and Barclays use blue to portray a logical, calm organization.
OKI Printing Solutions and its resident color guru — world renowned color psychologist Angela Wright, point out that color psychology can have an impact on a team’s performance, too. According to Wright, certain colors could have a major bearing on player energy levels, the reaction of their opponents and even the emotions of the crowd.
She said the French team sends out an excellent message to its opposition because its kit is royal blue with some red detail. Blue is the color of the mind and may work to “psyche-out” their opponents as it suggests they will play a well though tout and strategic game. This thoughtful color, combined with the aggression and power of red, achieves a great balance as it conveys that the team has both brains and brawn.
Wright also believes the red and gold of Spain’s football kit provides a winning formula. She said red is the color of physical strength and will work to intimidate the opposition. Moreover, when coupled with the warm yellow, the Spanish team will be perceived as confident. However, Wright warns that England’s success could come down to luck of the draw. She remarked that England’s white jersey could be perceived as passive on the pitch and will lower the team’s energy — whereas the red of their away jersey actually increases their physical strength. History attests to this, showing that England’s last World Cup win was in 1966 emblazoned in the winning red of their away jersey.
Commenting on color psychology in sport Wright said: “A team’s jersey colors can have a drastic effect on how its footballers play. For example, the Manchester United 1996 away strip was gray, a color which invariably affects player confidence and essentially makes them feel like hibernating! Not the best emotion to be going onto the pitch with. It was soon replaced because the team didn’t win a single game in this away shirt!
Wright’s views on selected World Cup teams: Saudi Arabia (white with green) — clear, honest and reassuring; Brazil (yellow with green) — self-confident and optimistic; England (white with red and navy) — passive; Germany (white with red, yellow and black detail) — scary; Argentina (light blue and white) — honesty and purity; Holland (orange and white) — fun; France (royal blue with red) — highly efficient, with a bit of physical strength.
If you’d like the findings on all 32 World Cup teams, e-mail [email protected].
