Adidas have continued the build-up to Friday’s World Cup 2014 group stage draw by unveiling the official tournament ball.
Named after a poll involving close to a million fans in Brazil, the ‘Brazuca’, has been presented this week at a launch event in Rio as the ball to be used at next summer’s World Cup finals by the 32 competing nations.
The name is coined from two meanings, a colloquial phrase used to describe something ‘intrinsically Brazilian’ in style, and something that is ‘shouted in approval of a skilful move’.
The ball is constructed with six interlocking panels and decorated in a swirling multi-coloured pattern. Described as a ribbon pattern, the design is based on the Brazilian tradition of wish bracelets.
Adidas have announced also that to play on the adage that every Brazilian child is ‘born with a ball at their feet’, every baby born today, on the ball’s official launch, will be donated a copy of it.
Lionel Messi and Iker Casillas, Bayern Munich and Milan have been listed as parties involved in the ball’s development and it is said to offer “improved grip, touch, stability and aerodynamic.”
Barcelona and Brazil full-back Dani Alves has commented on the design.
“My first impression of the Brazuca is of a ball that is fantastic and we are going to have a lot of fun with it.
“Adidas has created an incredible-looking ball fitting for a tournament as big as the FIFA World Cup. Most importantly, it plays well on the ground and in the air. I’m sure all the players will love it.”
