UEFA, in collaboration with Adidas, revealed the official ball for Euro 2024, named “Fussballliebe” (German for “love of soccer”), during an event in Berlin on Wednesday.
This ball will feature in the 51 matches of the tournament scheduled from June 14 to July 14 next year.
Eight teams, including Austria, France, Belgium, England, Portugal, Spain, Scotland, and Türkiye, have already secured their spots in UEFA EURO 2024. UEFA.com offers an overview of the qualifying groups, where the top two teams from each group will automatically qualify for the tournament in Germany in the summer of 2024.
A notable feature of the ball is a chip linked to a gyroscope that transmits data 500 times per second to capture the exact moment it is kicked. This “kick point” technology aids match officials in making offside decisions by using multiple camera angles to produce 3D visualizations of player movements.
UEFA emphasized that this “connected ball technology” provides an unparalleled view of the ball’s movement, significantly aiding the video assistant referee (VAR) decision-making process.
Adidas is also known for providing balls for the FIFA men’s and women’s World Cups. The “Fussballliebe” is distinguished by its sustainable characteristics, incorporating recycled polyester and water-based inks, as well as materials like corn fibers, sugar cane, and wood pulp.
In a commitment to social responsibility, Adidas has announced that 1% of the net sales from the “Fussballliebe” ball will be donated to the Common Goal soccer charity, initiated by former Spanish midfielder Juan Mata.
