January 25 – Adidas has unveiled the official ball for the Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand, which like the ball for the Qatar 2022 finals last year, will feature connected ball technology.
Called OCEAUNZ, it is the ninth consecutive ball created by adidas for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The design has been inspired by the landscapes of host countries Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
It is also a celebration of the cultures of both host countries and features designs by Aboriginal artist, Chern’ee Sutton, and Māori artist, Fiona Collis, whose art is also used in the event’s brand identity, Beyond Greatness.
The connected ball technology debuted in Qatar and provides precise ball data, which will be made available to Video Match Officials in real-time.
Combined with player position data and by applying artificial intelligence, the technology also co-ordinates with semi-automated offside technology which will also debut in the women’s game at the World Cup.
The ball’s specs feature:
- CTR-CORE – a ground-breaking core within the ball that is designed to improve accuracy and consistency, supporting fast, precise play with maximum shape and air retention
- SPEEDSHELL – The ball’s polyurethane (PU) skin features micro and macro textures and a new 20-piece panel shape, enhancing aerodynamics
- CONNECTED BALL TECHNOLOGY – A Suspension System in the centre of the ball hosts and stabilises a 500Hz inertial measurement unit (IMU) motion sensor, providing unprecedented insight into every element of the movement of the ball. The sensor is powered by a rechargeable battery, which can be charged by induction.
FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura said: “adidas has created an iconic Official Match Ball for the FIFA Women’s World Cup that reflects diversity, inclusivity and togetherness, fitting themes for the first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup to be co-hosted by two different countries from different confederations.”
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