adidas reveals the official match ball of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia (June 14, 2018 – July 15, 2018), as the world’s best players seek to claim the biggest prize in soccer next summer.

This new Telstar 18 is a modern variation of the first adidas FIFA World Cup match ball, the Telstar, which was used at the 1970 tournament in Mexico. The name of the original came from its position as the "star of television," as it was the first ball to be decorated with black panels.

Boasting a revamped sustainable composition with elements including re-cycled backing material and packaging, the Telstar 18 is also defined by its brand new panel design featuring a metallic print execution and texture graphic effect.

In addition, an NFC chip has been embedded into the ball, the first time it’s ever been used in an official match ball as well. This chip enables consumers to interact with the ball using a smartphone, as well as unlocking exclusive content and information for the user. The personalized and location-aware experience displays specific details of each ball and provides access to challenges which users can enter in the run-up to the World Cup.

Furthermore, the ball went through extensive testing by some of the leading national and club sides including Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Manchester United, Juventus, Real Madrid and Ajax, to ensure it suits the needs of the best players in the world.

The Telstar 18 will be available to purchase from adidas retailers worldwide and online soon.

In related news, ‘FIFA 18’ pairs you with the world’s best for the return of Alex Hunter.