Herzogenaurach, Germany – With the World Cup just a few months away, Adidas has launched the Al Rihla footballs that will be used in the tournament.
The balls, which owe their properties to clever polyurethane coverings, will travel faster in flight than their predecessors.
The key lies in the Speedshell PU skin. This, the company said, features micro and macro textures and a new 20 panel shape, which enhances aerodynamics to improves accuracy, flight stability and swerve.'
It is also the first ball to be made using only water-based inks and glues, Adidas said.