adidas and UEFA have presented ‘Tango 12’, the Official Match Ball for the UEFA EURO 2012. The ball was unveiled on stage during the UEFA EURO 2012 finals draw by former Ukrainian Olympic pole vaulter Sergey Bubka. 

Photo: adidas Tango 12 ball, from news.adidas.com

The new ball is based on the classic Tango design that was used during both the FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO tournaments during the early 1980s. The adidas Tango 12 design features a colored outline inspired by the flags of the two host nations—Poland and Ukraine. Three bespoke graphics decorate the ball and link to the key characteristics of soccer: unity, rivalry and passion.

The adidas Tango 12 also has a series of triangular panels that are thermally bonded together to ensure a true, stable flight path. Each ball is covered with a grip texture which supports boot to ball contact and enhances ball control. A woven carcass beneath the outer surface and a new bladder for increased air retention and reduced water uptake.

The adidas Tango 12 has been developed over a two-year period and underwent two types of testing including qualitative player testing, which was conducted across eight different countries, and quantitative lab testing to prove the ball meets and exceeds all FIFA Approved Standards for an Official Match Ball.

adidas Group CEO Herbert Hainer commented: «The adidas Tango 12 is a combination of many years of soccer tradition coupled with extensive player and lab testing to make it the most tested ball adidas has ever produced.»

The adidas Tango 12 will be used on field during the UEFA EURO 2012 which kicks off on June 8 at The National Stadium Warsaw. All competing federations will receive an allocation of thirty Official Match Balls this week.

The adidas Tango 12 is available for purchase in adidas retail stores priced approximately at $149.99.