OCEAUNZ, the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 Official Match Ball, was unveiled by Adidas in Sydney/Gadigal, Australia. The ball was first hovered by helicopter over Sydney's skyline before landing at Marks Park, which has a vista of Bondi Beach.
OCEAUNZ, the ninth FIFA Women's World Cup football produced by Adidas, is inspired by the natural landscapes of the two host countries. Its imagery pays homage to the mountain ranges of Aotearoa New Zealand, and Australia's connection to the Indian Ocean.
The ball uses the most contemporary Interactive Ball Technology to augment match data and acumens. It also contains embellishments by Mori artist Fiona Collis and Aboriginal artist Chern'ee Sutton, commends the civilizations of both host nations. The Beyond Greatness brand identity for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 incorporates their artwork.
The first-ever FIFA Women's World Cup to be co-hosted by two distinct countries from separate confederations stated FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura. "Adidas has produced an iconic Officially Match Ball for the FIFA Women's World Cup that embodies diversity, inclusivity, and togetherness. The rich ethnicities that Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand particularly portrayed on OCEAUNZ, will undoubtedly elevate the pleasure of visiting fans and teams "BeyondGreatness" during this edition of the competition,” she said.
The Official Match Ball's moniker honours the pairing of Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand as the competition's hosts.
The connected ball technology used at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar is also included in OCEAUNZ. This delivers accurate ball information that will be made instantly apparent to video match officials.
The cutting-edge interconnected ball system contributes to FIFA's semi-automated offside technology by combining player location data with artificial intelligence and providing Video Assistant Referees with immediate information to aid in decision-making.
The opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 between New Zealand and Norway will take place on July 20. The same day will see Australia play against the Republic of Ireland. The final match of the event will take place on August 20 in Sydney or Gadigal.
Tickets can be purchased via FIFA.com.
