MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Spectacular launching of the 'brazuca', the official match ball for the 2014 Cup

Brazuca reflects the vibrancy and fun associated with football in Brazil

The adidas brazuca, the Official Match Ball for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil was given a fittingly spectacular launch on Tuesday 3 December. The iconic Parque Lage in Rio de Janeiro provided a picturesque venue, while a breathtaking 3D light projection show wowed attendees including former Netherlands international Clarence Seedorf and Brazil Cafu.

 The brazuca, which means 'Brazilian' and refers to the Brazilian way of life, is the most-tested adidas ball in history. It was, over a two-and-a-half-year period, tried out by over 600 of the world’s top players or former players including Iker Casillas, Dani Alves, Lionel Messi, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Zinedine Zidane, and 30 teams in ten countries across three continents. The brazuca was also used at a selection of international football matches, albeit with a different design, including a friendly between Sweden and Argentina last February.

The brazuca’s colors and ribbon design of the ball panels symbolize the traditional multi-colored wish bracelets worn in the country, in addition to reflecting the vibrancy and fun associated with football in the South American country. It has a new structural innovation, with a unique symmetry of six identical panels alongside a different surface structure will provide improved grip, touch, stability and aerodynamics on the pitch.

Adidas’ series of Official Match Balls have a unique place in FIFA World Cup history and, according to some of the men expected to use it at Brazil 2014, the brazuca is set to create its own legacy just as the likes of the Telstar, Tango and Tricolore did previously.

“The brazuca has a stunning design that feels inspired by Brazil,” said Casillas. “Now the ball has been launched, the tournament feels a lot closer. I'm looking forward to playing in Brazil with a great ball.”

Dani Alves added: “My first impression of the brazuca is of a ball that is fantastic, and we're 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! It's increased my levels of excitement even further and I honestly can’t wait for the opening game!”

The brazuca will be available to purchase globally from Wednesday 4 December in selected adidas retail outlets, associated stockists and via FIFA.com official Store. Furthermore, any child born in Brazil on 3 December, the day of its official launch, was entitled to a free Brazuca courtesy of adidas.