Real Madrid remove cross from club crest in Middle East

It's hard to notice, but Real Madrid's official club crest includes a traditional Christian cross on top of its symbolic crown.

At least it does everywhere except in the Middle East.

After signing a lucrative three-year deal with the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Real Madrid have dropped the cross from their crest in the Middle East to avoid offending Muslim sensibilities.

While the original crest will continue to be featured in Europe, the decision has come under scrutiny within football circles. Spanish daily Marca, a known supporter of Real Madrid, described the move as evidence that the club "is willing to compromise on aspects of its identity in pursuit of these new fans."

Back in September, club president Florentino Perez described the deal with the National Bank of Abu Dhabi as a "strategic alliance with one of the most prestigious institutions in the world."

(Dap: the Guardian)