FIFA, in collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee and official partner adidas, announced today the official ball for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, named “Brazuca.” This name was chosen through a public vote, with 70% of over a million Brazilian supporters favoring it over two other options, Bossa Nova and Carnavalesca.
Adidas, the longstanding supplier of the official FIFA World Cup ball since 1970, drew inspiration from Brazilian culture in proposing these names. Brazuca, an informal term widely used by Brazilians to express national pride in the Brazilian way of life, emerged as the clear winner. This marks the first time that fans have directly participated in selecting the name for the World Cup ball.
Brazuca embodies the Brazilian spirit, reflecting emotions, pride, and joy, much like the country’s approach to football. FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke expressed delight in letting Brazilian football fans play a role in naming one of the main symbols of the event, envisioning Brazuca joining the ranks of iconic World Cup balls such as the Tango in 1978 and the Azteca in 1986. The announcement took place in the presence of Cafú, a legendary Seleção player, during the Esporte Espectacular program on TV Globo.
While the name is now official, fans will have to wait patiently to catch a glimpse of Brazuca, as it is currently in development. Various clubs and federations worldwide are testing the ball in preparation for its launch at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
