Global sports apparel manufacturer adidas Friday unveiled the official match ball of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil final - Brazuca Final Rio.
The ball will be used in the final July 13 when the top two federations of the mega event battle it out for a place in history. The design of Brazuca Final Rio has been inspired by the green and gold on the World Cup trophy and is a variation of the Brazuca - the official match ball currently being used in the tournament.
Prior to the launch, the ball went through a thorough testing process over a 2.5 year period involving more than 600 of the world's top players and 30 teams in 10 countries across three continents, making it the most tested ball ever by adidas, said a release.
Clubs involved in testing include AC Milan and Bayern Munich among others while players involved in the process were global stars Lionel Messi, Iker Casillas, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Zinedine Zidane.
The technology incorporated into the bladder and carcass of Brazuca and Brazuca Final Rio is identical to the Tango 12 (Euro 2012), Cafusa (2013 Confederations Cup) and the Champions League match ball.
Also Read
However, 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 has made every World Cup ball since 1970 and recently extended the partnership with FIFA until 2030.
The limited edition Brazuca Final Rio is priced at Rs.7,599.