There has been a lot of controversy about the new FIFA World Cup 2010 Official Match Ball, called the Jabulani.
Apparently each World Cup is an opportunity for the Adidas to experiment with materials and technology. The result is usually a faster ball, which becomes the gold standard, once players become used to it. But this year’s model has surprised elite players with trajectory issues. Strikers and midfielders are complaining along with the goalkeepers (who never like the new designs at first).
Don’t we hear similar complaints from swimmers at the Summer Olympics, where swimsuits get thinner and flimsier each time around?
That said, you and your kids will enjoy the video of the World Cup balls being produced at their factory. I am amazed at how many steps there are in the process – no wonder these World Cup 2010 match balls cost over one hundred dollars each!
