The Leprechaun has long held a special place in Notre Dame’s identity. Its national debut came in 1964, when it appeared on the cover of Time magazine alongside first-year head coach Ara Parseghian.

"The Leprechaun represents the tenacious and determined spirit of the Fighting Irish, a relentless desire to seize every opportunity with unity, clarity and purpose though the odds be great or small," Notre Dame said in a statement. "This logo, drawn from a legacy known around the world, represents Fighting Irish Football."

According to NBC News, a spokeswoman from Notre Dame said that the creation of the new logo started in 2024.