Why Crystal Palace Are Called The Eagles

An eagle soaring in the sky over a football stadium, symbolizing strength and ambition, with a vibrant crowd in the background.

The Pre-"Eagle" Era: A Club in Search of Identity

Before becoming Palace Eagles, Crystal Palace FC lacked a distinctive nickname. In the early years, they were simply referred to as Palace, and their first nickname was The Glaziers. This name was a reflection of the club’s roots near the original Crystal Palace exhibition building. But as the club evolved, so did its need for a stronger identity.

The remains of the Crystal Palace Exhibition in Crystal Palace Park, showcasing the historic site that gave its name to the football club — The remnants of the Crystal Palace Exhibition, located in Crystal Palace Park, serve as a historic landmark that inspired the naming of Crystal Palace FC.

Malcolm Allison and the Birth of "The Eagles"

Animated silhouette of man in suit looking at image of an eagle.

The pivotal moment that led to the Eagles CPFC nickname came under the management of Malcolm Allison in the early 1970s. Allison was a visionary, determined to give the club a powerful image that would resonate with fans and players alike. By adopting the eagle as the club’s symbol, he created a lasting legacy for Crystal Palace as The Eagles Crystal Palace. The eagle came to represent ambition, strength, and the freedom to rise above competition.

It is widely believed that the inspiration for Crystal Palace's eagle came from the iconic symbolism of eagles in football, particularly the use of the eagle by SL Benfica. Like Crystal Palace, Benfica’s eagle represents strength and pride, and its presence at every matchday is a defining symbol of the club's legacy.

The decision by Malcolm Allison to introduce the eagle became a defining moment in the club’s history, much like how Benfica’s eagle stands as a powerful symbol of their long-standing legacy.

The Eagle Crest and Its Symbolism

Benfica's eagle mascot perched proudly, symbolizing strength and tradition for the club. — Benfica's matchday eagle mascot, perched proudly, symbolizes the club's powerful identity and rich legacy, much like Crystal Palace's adoption of the eagle as their emblem. (Photo by Niccolò Chiamori on Unsplash)

In 1973, Crystal Palace unveiled a new crest that featured an eagle. This crest was a clear visual manifestation of the team’s aspirations, and the nickname Palace Eagles took hold. The eagle, with its powerful wingspan and ability to soar, encapsulated the club's ambition and determination, symbolizing their potential to rise to new heights in English football.

Allison’s Lasting Legacy

Empty Holmesdale End Stand at Selhurst Park Stadium — The Holmesdale End Stand at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace FC.

Thanks to Malcolm Allison’s vision, the nickname Crystal Palace Eagles became more than just a mascot—it was a symbol of the club’s resilience and pursuit of greatness. Even as the club faced ups and downs, the eagle became a rallying cry for supporters, embodying the spirit of Eagles CPFC. Today, The Eagles are one of the most recognized symbols in football.

Conclusion

Football match in action at Selhurst Park Stadium, home of Crystal Palace FC, with fans filling the stands. — A match underway at Selhurst Park Stadium, with fans cheering on the Eagles of Crystal Palace.

The nickname The Eagles continues to fly high, thanks to a single manager’s bold decision that transformed Crystal Palace FC’s identity. The legacy of Malcolm Allison endures in the hearts of fans and players, and Palace Eagles remains a symbol of strength, ambition, and pride. Similarly, iconic stadiums like Benfica Stadium have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of football clubs, making them much more than just places to play. To explore the deep history and impact of Benfica Stadium, check out our Benfica Stadium page. Likewise, Selhurst Park has been central to Crystal Palace’s journey, serving as the heart of the club. Learn more about the stadium's rich history and influence on the club by visiting our Selhurst Park page.

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