5 reasons we love the 1996 Celtic away shirt (The "Bumblebee")

The 1996 Celtic away shirt, fondly (and sometimes controversially) known as the "Bumblebee", is one of the most distinctive and talked-about kits in Scottish football history. Designed by Umbro and worn during the 1996-97 season, it saw action in domestic and European matches as Tommy Burns' side attempted to halt Rangers’ dominance of the decade.

Celtic may not have lifted silverware that season, but the shirt left a lasting impression. With its bold yellow and black hooped design, the Bumblebee was impossible to ignore.  And that’s exactly what we love about it.

Worn by cult heroes such as Paolo Di Canio, Pierre van Hooijdonk and Jorge Cadete, the kit was on show in some big fixtures. Most notably, it was worn in the New Year’s Day Old Firm derby in 1997, where Cadete bagged a goal in a 3-1 defeat at Ibrox. It might not be remembered for trophies, but it’s remembered for making a statement.

Browse our collection of authentic vintage Celtic shirts here.  

Here are 5 reasons we love the 1996 Celtic away shirt:

A cast of cult legends

This shirt was worn by some of the most entertaining and charismatic players to wear the Hoops. Di Canio’s flair, Van Hooijdonk’s goals, and Cadete’s memorable finishing gave Celtic fans plenty to cheer about—even if the trophy cabinet stayed shut. The Bumblebee shirt captures that mid-90s era of flair and frustration in equal measure.

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It split the support, in the best way

Let’s be honest: not everyone loved the Bumblebee when it first dropped. But that’s part of its appeal. It’s the kind of shirt that sparks debate, draws attention, and dares to be different. Over time, it’s become a cult classic, with fans embracing its boldness and collectors scrambling to get hold of one.  

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Umbro at Their Peak (Without the Diamond)

The 1996 collection from Umbro is legendary. This shirt was part of a unique batch (England Euro 96 shirts anyone?) that ditched the traditional Umbro diamond logo for a cleaner, more modern typeface.  A small design tweak that makes it feel even more unique. 

Unmistakable design

There’s no mistaking the Bumblebee. The bold black hoops against a vibrant yellow backdrop, matched with a classic Umbro collar, make this one of the most recognisable Celtic shirts ever made. It’s not subtle—but that’s the point. It’s a shirt that demands attention.

It’s a collector’s favourite

What was once divisive is now one of the most sought-after Celtic shirts of the 90s. Whether it’s for the players, the design, or the memories, the 1996 Bumblebee away shirt has become a must-have. Authentic versions are hard to come by—especially in good condition—making it a prized piece for collectors.

Want to own your own authentic bumblee shirt.  Shop the 1996 Celtic away shirt at Football Shirt Collective today, fully authenticated, with multiple photos and no fakes. Just the real deal.  Browse our collection of authentic vintage Celtic shirts here.