From Lab to League: How Sheffield Hallam University Helped Decathlon C

From Lab to League: The Creation of the UEFA Europa League Ball

From Lab to League: How Sheffield Hallam University Helped Decathlon C

Dream Partnership

Ever dreamed of playing with the same ball as your favorite UEFA Europa League team or player? 

Thanks to the official match balls co-developed by Decathlon and Sheffield Hallam University's renowned Sports Engineering Research Group (SERG), this dream has never been closer to reality!

At Decathlon, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, innovative products that elevate the experience for athletes at every level. Our partnership with SERG, part of the School of Sport and Physical Activity, has been instrumental in bringing the official match balls of the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League to life.

From Lab to League: How Sheffield Hallam University Helped Decathlon C

Debut of the Kipsta Match Ball

The 2024-25 season marked the debut of these groundbreaking Kipsta match balls, expertly designed by our team in Lille, France.

Clubs like Manchester United, Rangers, and Chelsea quickly embraced the ball, showcasing its superior performance on the field with sharp passes, quick counterattacks, and decisive goals.

The meticulous research conducted by Sheffield Hallam University’s SERG. With over 20 years of experience in sports equipment innovation, SERG is a world leader in its field. At the university’s Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre, a team of researchers led by Dr. Katie Mills, used cutting-edge technology—such as high-speed cameras and force platforms—to analyze every aspect of the ball’s performance. 

From Lab to League: How Sheffield Hallam University Helped Decathlon C

What Sets These Balls Apart?

The rigorous testing ensured the ball met the highest FIFA QUALITY PRO standards, resulting in:

Unmatched Sphericity: Ensuring consistent flight for pinpoint accuracy.
Superior Trajectory Stability: Delivering predictable flight paths for precise passes and shots.
Exceptional Impact Performance: Offering consistent bounce and durability.

The result is a ball that provides a professional-level playing experience, whether you’re competing in high-stakes matches or enjoying a friendly game with friends.

From Lab to League: How Sheffield Hallam University Helped Decathlon C

Supporting the Next Generation

A collaboration that extends beyond creating a world-class product. It has also provided invaluable learning opportunities for the next generation of sports engineers. Undergraduate and postgraduate students at Sheffield Hallam University actively participated in the research, gaining hands-on experience with high-level sports engineering projects.

Available to All
Decathlon believes that quality football products should be accessible to everyone. That’s why these UEFA-approved balls, built to the highest technical standards, are now available in stores and online. Priced at £69.99. Whether you’re playing on professional pitches or school playgrounds, these balls are designed to elevate your game. 

Visit your nearest Decathlon store or shop online today to get your hands on the official UEFA match balls. Feel the difference of innovation, precision, and passion that define Decathlon and Kipsta.