Notre Dame Unveils New Football-Specific Leprechaun Logo
The University of Notre Dame has officially unveiled a new football-specific Fighting Irish leprechaun logo, adding a fresh twist to one of college footballโs most iconic brands.
The announcement was made Thursday, with the university emphasizing that the updated design aims to reflect the energy, tradition, and athleticism of its storied football program.
Designed in-house by Fighting Irish Media, the logo marks a new chapter in Notre Dameโs visual identity while staying true to the legacy and symbolism that fans across generations have come to associate with the Fighting Irish.
According to a university news release, the design process was deeply collaborative, drawing inspiration from a blend of historic imagery and modern athletic influences.
Athletic department staff played a key role in shaping the logoโs final look. The creative team reviewed countless photos and film of current and former student-athletes, studying their running styles, postures, and expressions of grit and determination.
The goal, according to the release, was to capture a sense of motion and intensity that speaks directly to the game-day spirit of Notre Dame football.
While the traditional leprechaun logoโcreated in the 1960s by sports artist Theodore W. Drakeโremains an enduring symbol of the university, the new version is tailored specifically for football branding and use.
The updated leprechaun features a dynamic pose, designed to echo the movements of an athlete charging onto the field. The design introduces subtle refinements in linework and body proportions while keeping the character’s unmistakable defiance and confidence intact.
“This new logo is about honoring our past while pushing forward,” said Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick in a statement. “It reflects the toughness, passion, and tradition that defines Notre Dame football, while giving our team a unique mark that is both modern and instantly recognizable.”
The logo will be used across various football-specific platforms, including team apparel, digital media, marketing materials, and game-day branding. Fans can expect to see it prominently featured throughout the 2025 season, starting with its debut during pre-season activities and merchandise releases.
Reactions from alumni and fans have so far been mixed but largely positive. Many appreciate the university’s effort to blend innovation with heritage. The new design adds to Notre Dame’s rich visual legacy, offering a contemporary identity that resonates with both younger fans and long-time supporters of the program.
As the Fighting Irish gear up for the upcoming season, the updated leprechaun stands as a bold new symbol of pride, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that has defined Notre Dame football for over a century.