Adidas Ball for EURO 2024: Real-time Kick Detection

In the eyes of football traditionalists, the intrusion of technology has, for the most part, tarnished the essence of the beautiful game rather than enhancing it. Many argue that football was far more enjoyable in the days before the precision of VAR. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the purpose of such technological advancements is not solely to cater to audience entertainment; instead, it aims to elevate the game’s fairness and impartiality. Today, Adidas unveiled yet another tech-driven innovation designed to enhance the world of football.

The FUSSBALLLIEBE, despite its somewhat clunky name (courtesy of the German language), stands out as a connected ball that tracks kicks in real-time and has earned the distinction of being the Official Football for the upcoming UEFA EURO 2024. Beyond its nomenclatural complexities, which translate to “love of soccer,” this ball represents a groundbreaking fusion of sport and technology, poised to reshape our experience and analysis of football.

The brains behind FUSSBALLLIEBE’s innovation lie in Adidas’ Connected Ball Technology, a collaborative effort with Kinexon. This technological marvel incorporates a 500Hz inertial measurement unit (IMU) motion sensor nestled within a suspension system at the ball’s core. This sensor provides intricate insights into every nuance of the ball’s movement, a feature unprecedented in the history of football. Not only does this technology furnish real-time data to video match officials, thereby enhancing the precision and speed of in-game decisions, but it also synergizes with UEFA’s semi-automated offside technology, marking a significant advancement in the sport’s adjudication.

The ball isn’t just intelligent; it’s a testament to precision engineering. Its PRECISIONSHELL, composed of a 20-piece panel shape with strategically placed deboss grooves, contributes to controlling airflow over the ball for maximum accuracy. The CTR-CORE within the ball further fortifies this precision, ensuring accuracy, consistent play, and optimal shape and air retention.

Aesthetically, FUSSBALLLIEBE pays vibrant homage to the spirit of the game and the diversity of its global audience. The design, adorned with black wing shapes featuring colorful edges, curves, and dots, encapsulates the dynamic movement of the ball and the energetic essence of football. The use of bold colors such as red, blue, green, and orange not only celebrates the participating nations but also reflects the sheer joy and universality of football. The inclusion of tournament stadiums and host city names adds a personal touch, transforming this edition of the ball into both a collector’s item and an advanced piece of sporting equipment.

Sustainability stands as another cornerstone of FUSSBALLLIEBE’s design. Crafted from bio-based materials like corn fibers, sugar cane, wood pulp, and rubber, combined with recycled polyester and water-based ink, Adidas proudly positions the FUSSBALLLIEBE as featuring more bio-based materials than any previous Adidas Official Match Ball, all without compromising its performance.

As we embark on EURO 2024 with Adidas’ FUSSBALLLIEBE, it becomes evident that the future of football is as much about innovation and technology as it is about the game itself. Whether it’s Adidas’ high-tech, real-time data-gathering ball or designs like Nendo’s airless football, these creations transcend mere gameplay; they represent a transformative force within the sport.