Bespoke flag commissioned by Barmy Flags
Exeter City have unveiled a specially commissioned flag that they will donate to fans of Fluminense when the two sides play in a game to commemorate Brazil’s first ever match as a nation.
The 10ft x 5ft flag is based on the cross of St George and bears the inscription Exeter City FC in bold letters across the red horizontal. It also has a Fluminense badge in the top left-hand square, balanced by a Brazilian flag in the top right section.
To highlight the link between Exeter and Fluminense – who play on Sunday 20st July – City’s nickname, Grecians, is printed in the bottom left-hand box, across from Flu’s nickname, Guerreiros, meaning warriors.
The idea of the design is to show the link and friendship between fans of Exeter and Fluminense and the pivotal role the club played in bringing national football to Brazil.
Exeter have to thank renowned flag makers Barmy Flags for making and donating the flag, which will be presented to Fluminense fans at the Estadio das Laranjeiras stadium in Rio de Janeiro next Sunday.
They were so impressed with the story of how Brazil, who hosted this year’s World Cup, first took to the field as a national side to play Exeter City, that they waived the £350 fee.
Charlie Barlow, owner of Barmy Flags, which is based in Saddleworth, in the Pennine Hills, said: “It’s a wonderful story and captures the imagination.
“We make thousands of flags for football fans, but this is pretty unique and it is wonderful to think that it will be a permanent reminder of the trip.
“I hope the Fluminense fans give it pride of place in the Maracana.
“We are delighted to be linked to the tour and wish Exeter all the best for the new season.”
Julian Tagg, Vice-Chairman of Exeter City, said: “We’re extremely privileged to be able to visit Brazil again in the centenary year of formation of the country’s national team, and we can’t wait to reinforce our friendship with our hosts.
“We’re delighted that Barmy Flags have supplied this fantastic commemorative flag to us, which we will be able to leave with Fluminense as a gift from Exeter City.”
The flag is made of top-quality polyester and the badges are hand-stitched.
Barmy Flags was formed in 1991 and has made more than 15,000 flags, mainly for football fans, though they are often seen at cricket matches, especially England games supported by the so-called Barmy Army.
Barmy Flags can be contacted by ringing 01457 810007 or go to www.barmyflags.com