Italy’s top soccer league, Serie A, has unveiled its new match ball for the 2022-23 season, ushering in a new partnership at the same time.
The Puma Orbita model ball was unveiled on Thursday, June 23. The partnership with Puma ends the league’s 15-year match ball relationship with Nike. The Orbita is the same model Spain’s La Liga will use in 2022-23.
“The moment of the launch of a new match ball is always very important at the beginning of a new season as it is the object that most evokes dreams and memories in each of us,” – said Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo on the league website. “Puma’s Orbita Serie A match ball features a modern and eye-catching design that will certainly appeal to the younger generation. Moreover, the references to the Italian flag and the league logo strengthen the brand identity and its international recognition. The high quality of the materials will guarantee optimal performance to allow the protagonists on the pitch to offer the best possible show”.
The ball features tonal blue graphics in abstract “A” shapes, which are bordered in the red, white and green of the Italian flag. Smaller blue streaks and grey patterns are found all over the ball. A large Puma logo appears in pink on one of the panels.
The Orbita ball is made up of 12 star-shaped panels that, according to Puma, reduce the number of seams and allow players to connect with the ball better. Its state-of-the-art technology creates “the optimal sphere that maintains its shape and allows for less water absorption.”
“Over the last year and a half, we have developed, tested and modified the new Orbita to create a ball that will perform at the highest level. The new 12 star-shaped panel configuration results in the optimal sphere to allow for better connection on the ball,” said Thomas Schwarz, Puma’s head of product line management teamsport individual. “We are excited to see the new ball in action in one of the top leagues in the world and we hope it will provide beautiful moments on the pitch.”
A polyolefin elastomer foam is used to “increase touch sensitivity, providing a firmer feel and better bounce consistency.” The textured polyurethane surface improves the ball’s aerodynamics and reduces wear. The ball also features a rubber bladder and a Puma Air Lock valve for better air retention and rebound properties.
The Serie A Puma Orbita ball will be available through Puma.com and select retailers starting on July 1. We’ll find out when it will see its first game action when Serie A releases its 2022-23 fixture list on Friday, June 24.
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