After a turbulent few years, Racing White Daring Molenbeek (RWDM) have announced a rebrand and name change to become Daring Brussels.
RWDM is reclaiming one of its original names, Daring de Bruxelles, marking a return to its roots, the club stated.
The revived name, which is historic, strong, and unique, symbolises the ambition to be a modern club representing the European capital by 2025, aiming for sustainability and self-sufficiency. The team are also Belgian champions Union Saint-Gilloise's historic derby rivals, when both clubs competed at the top of Belgian football.
Daring Club de Bruxelles, founded in 1895, won five Belgian championship titles (1912, 1914, 1921, 1936, 1937) and a Belgian Cup in 1935, but ceased operations in 1973. Royal Racing White then moved from Woluwé to Molenbeek, becoming Racing White Daring de Molenbeek, with registration number N.47, before declaring bankruptcy in 2003.
A club poster of Daring Brussels from 1912
The current RWDM was established in 2015 after acquiring Standard Wetteren’s registration number 5479, and reached the Belgian Second Division, later known as Division 1B, in 2020.
After a brief stint in the top tier in 2023 under American shareholder John Textor, the club was relegated back down. This season saw them narrowly miss promotion to the Jupiler Pro League, finishing third in the Challenger Pro League and eliminated in Promotion Playoffs.
Under its new name, Daring Brussels aims to reclaim its place in elite football. The club embraces its heritage as a Belgian football icon and cultural pillar, celebrating its 130th anniversary this year.
The team’s traditional red and black colours will be enhanced with gold motifs, a nod to its original emblem, featuring Saint Michael, patron saint of the city, on the new logo that melds tradition with modernity.
The news of RWDM's rebranding to Daring Brussels has sparked considerable dissatisfaction among supporters.
"We met the fans yesterday to inform them. We understand that some people are upset, but we hope they will return to the stadium next season," the spokesperson stated. "The board has made a decision and will not reverse it, but we are always open to dialogue with our supporters."
