The University Partnership Behind UEFA's Top-Tier Match Balls
Decathlon x Sheffield Hallam University
January 30, 2025
Decathlon UK is proud to highlight its successful collaboration with the Sports Engineering Research Group (SERG), part of the School of Sport and Physical Activity at Sheffield Hallam University. A partnership that has been instrumental in designing and developing the official match balls for the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League, which have been thrilling fans across Europe since their debut in the 2024-25 season.
From Lab to League: A Match Made in Innovation
For over two decades, SERG has been a pioneer in sports engineering, contributing to innovations in equipment used by athletes worldwide. Their dedication to pushing boundaries made them the ideal partner to co-develop UEFA’s official match balls with Decathlon.
The ask was clear: to ensure the ball could withstand the demands of the world’s best players and teams. Every detail, from the ball’s material composition to its aerodynamic performance, had to meet the highest standards.
To achieve this, the journey began with rigorous testing at Sheffield Hallam University’s Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre. Utilizing a range of bespoke equipment, including high-speed cameras and force platforms, a team of researchers led by Dr. Katie Mills meticulously analysed every aspect of the ball’s performance, ensuring it met the highest FIFA QUALITY PRO standards.
The results:
- Unmatched Sphericity: Guaranteeing consistent flight for pinpoint accuracy and predictable passes.
- Superior Trajectory Stability: Delivering consistent flight paths for powerful shots and precise crosses.
- Exceptional Impact Performance: Offering consistent bounce and durability for even the most demanding matches.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Sports Engineers
This collaboration extends beyond product development. Students from the School of Sport and Physical Activity at Sheffield Hallam University actively participated in the research, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in sports engineering and contributing to the advancement of the field.
Bringing Professional-Grade Performance to Everyone
Decathlon believes that high-quality sporting goods should be accessible to all. These UEFA-approved match balls, priced at £69.99, are now available online and in over 40 Decathlon stores across the UK, including the Sheffield store located at 199 street Eyre St, Sheffield City Centre, S1 3HU.
Allowing players of all levels to experience the same professional-grade performance as their heroes.
“We are incredibly proud of the impact this partnership has had on professional football,” “By combining our passion for sport with Sheffield Hallam University’s cutting-edge research, we’ve created match balls that not only meet the demands of elite players but also elevate the playing experience for footballers of all levels.” Will Taylor, UK Commercial Director - Teamsports.
"Our collaboration with Decathlon to test KIPSTA footballs underscores SERG's commitment to advancing sports equipment and ensuring these match balls meet the highest standards of performance, quality and consistency. It's incredibly rewarding to see our research contribute to the game at such a high level." Dr Simon Goodwill, Head of Research in the School of Sport and Physical Activity.
