Molten unveils Official Match Ball for the UEFA Europa League 2020/21 season

Molten Corporation (headquarters: Hiroshima, Japan; president & CEO: Kiyo Tamiaki), a manufacturer of competition-quality sports balls and equipment, will supply the official match ball for the 2020/21 UEFA Europa League. The exclusively designed ball will be used during the UEFA Europa League that is to be held in Europe from October 22, 2020 to May 26, 2021. Molten has been the official match ball for the UEFA Europa League since 2017. The new match ball incorporates the latest thermal bonding technology of the Vantaggio 5000, Molten’s flagship football model. The unique technology minimizes water absorption and helps the ball maintain its shape, which results in an elevated level of play. The textured surface and special coating improve ball control and accuracy, allowing for more precise passes and shots. The exclusive design was created after special consideration of UEFA’s brand. Molten will continue to develop and supply football products of outstanding function and design to every level of player, and work to fulfill the brand promise, “For the real game.”

■ Product Features

1. ACENTEC structure

Molten’s unique thermal bonding technology produces a smooth, seamless cover that cannot be accomplished by hand sewing. The result is a uniform surface and reduced water absorption, ensuring exceptional performance that is not affected by weather conditions.

  

2. Improved flight stability

The new surface finish and texture have improved the flight of the ball, allowing players to elevate their game with more accurate passing and shooting.

3. Exclusive Design for the League

The UEFA Europa League “energy wave” brand identity represents the journey of the clubs throughout Europe, expressing the highs and lows of their competitive adventure. The emphasis for this model has been placed on the energy wave, a strong, unique design displaying the detailed texture. The two large energy waves facing one another are a representation of the two teams on the pitch. (anxiously awaiting kick-off.)

4. Adopting new valve

Adopting a new valve reduces friction (40% compared to the previous Official Matchballs) when inflating the ball, making it more resistant to damage. Note : Apply a lubricant such as glycerin (or soapy water) to the pump needle when inflating the ball.

■ About the UEFA

Europa League UEFA Europa League is the largest league of professional football clubs in the world. Every season, over 180 professional football teams from 55 countries across Europe take part in the league games, including the preliminary round. Official website : https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/

■ About Molten

Molten, a manufacturer of balls and sports equipment, has been making and marketing basketballs, handballs, soccer balls, and volleyballs, of uncompromising quality since 1958. Molten continues to raise global standards, supplying the official game balls and sports equipment for major leagues, teams and international tournaments around the world. For further information, please visit www.molten.co.jp/sports/en/

■ For the real game

Molten's brand statement, "For the real game", encapsulates what we hope to accomplish through our products and activities. It is our conviction that the real game happens only when impeccable balls and sports equipment enable athletes to realize their full potential and maximize performance.