adidas has revealed the official match balls for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League and UEFA Women’s Champions League, inspired by the night sky and northern lights. The new designs will debut on 27 August during the play-off ties and will remain in use throughout the league phase.
Stars Meet Innovation in Champions League Ball
According to UEFA.com and reports from ESPN, the men’s Champions League ball takes direct inspiration from the night sky. The iconic white star panels are bordered in gold and painted in shades of blue. Hand-drawn zodiac signs in gold further symbolize destiny and heroic achievement, echoing the theme of European nights.
Women’s Ball Inspired by Northern Lights
The Women’s Champions League edition, meanwhile, celebrates deep space and the aurora borealis. Hexagon panels between the white stars are shaded in dark purple, layered with neon green gradients inspired by solar movement. Finishing touches of luminous pink and white stars reflect the brilliance of the cosmos, paying tribute to the path towards Budapest and Oslo, hosts of the finals in May 2026.
This story starts with a star. 💫⚽️
Introducing the new UEFA Champions League Pro Match Ball…@adidasfootball | #shiningstars pic.twitter.com/F1Fk0ZDDLk
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 27, 2025
Technology for Precision and Performance
adidas confirmed that both balls are built with cutting-edge technology tested in wind tunnels and on the pitch:
- PRISMA surface with a debossing pattern for accuracy and swerve
- Outer coating for secure grip and seamless control
- CTR-CORE design for maximum shape retention, accuracy, and speed
- Eco-conscious build, with bio-based layers using corn fibers, sugar cane, wood pulp, and natural rubber
The 2025/26 editions are also the most sustainable Champions League balls to date, with materials adjusted to reduce waste while maintaining elite performance.
