17. France 1998 – Tricolore:
Named for the three colours of the French flag, this model included other design innovations. It had a layer of synthetic foam which increased its durability. In addition, he placed microbubbles of highly resistant gas.
It increased his energy recovery and responsiveness. This marked the end of manufacturing the ball in Europe since the big companies went to Asia because it was cheaper.
18. Korea/Japan 2002 – Fevernova:
The new fever changes the design; it has three layers woven for precision, apart from a thin layer of synthetic foam rubber. It was a rounder, like the one from the next World Cup.
19. Germany 2006 – +Teamgeist:
This model eliminates the segments, leaving the surface smoother for a better finish. It is the first with sealed panels instead of being baked. Of the 32 pieces, 14 curves are used. The absorption of water is almost zero, so it does not change its weight or shape, whatever the condition of the court.
It was the first personalized, the name of the teams that played, the date, the time of the kick-off and the stadium’s name were placed. The +Teamgesit Berlin was used in the final with the same design but black and white details. In addition, the interior of the six faces is gold.
20. South Africa 2010 – Jabulani:
Its name means to celebrate in the Zulu language. It featured eight sealed panels and a layer of super carbonate for more precise shots. It is one of the most striking as it has 11 colours for the 11 players on the court and 11 languages, and 11 South African communities.
It was heavily criticized by goalkeepers and forwards for being slippery and having an unpredictable trajectory. They classified it as a beach ball because it moved around a lot and was difficult to control.
FIFA admitted during the competition that there were problems with the ball and that Adidas had to comply with the weight and measurement rules. But there were no changes until the culmination of the cup. It was named the worst ball in the history of football.
21. Brazil 2014 – Brazuca:
It was composed of six polyurethane panels joined to maintain the same weight and roundness, giving it better control, contact and stability. It has an internal latex bladder. It has been the most tested ball so far.
It was put to the test by more than 600 elite players in two and a half years and 30 teams on three continents. It should be noted that the popular vote chose the name for the first time.
22. Russia 2018 -Telstar 18:
It is a ball to pay tribute to the first one that Adidas created by having a black-and-white pixel design. It features a new face, recyclable packaging, and a proximity data transmission chip. Fans can interact with it through a smartphone by downloading an app.
It has a thermo-adherent and seamless surface. Unlike the previous ones, this ball has a significant impact because its precise flight characteristics offer greater control. As well as less water absorption and more contact.
These are all soccer balls from the first World Cup. Now you better understand this discipline’s breadth and the symbolism the balls imply.