In an exciting announcement for football fans across the continent, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and sportswear giant PUMA have revealed the official match ball for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, to be hosted in Morocco. Named ‘ITRI,’ the new match ball highlights Morocco’s rich cultural heritage and the vibrant spirit of African football.
The ITRI ball features a unique design adorned with traditional Moroccan zellij geometric patterns, reflecting the art form’s renowned craftsmanship known for intricate mosaic designs. This blend of traditional artistry with modern technology showcases PUMA’s commitment to honoring local culture while enhancing the performance of the match ball with their cutting-edge Orbita 6 technology.
The choice of the name ‘ITRI’—which means ‘star’ in Arabic—not only pays homage to the star featured on the Moroccan flag but also signifies the star motifs found in classic zellij craftsmanship. This thoughtful design connects the ball to both national pride and the continent’s footballing ambitions.
Symbolism in Design
The ITRI ball is rich in symbolism:
Star Geometry: Represents ambition, light, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines competition on Africa’s grandest footballing stage.
Petal Shapes: These elements symbolize celebration, growth, and the festive spirit that encapsulates the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, reflecting the joyful nature of the tournament.
Circular Symmetry: This aspect of the design emphasizes the unity of the 24 participating nations, showcasing their collective journey and shared passion for the sport.
As excitement builds for the tournament, the ITRI ball will make its debut on December 21, 2025, when the first matches of TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 are played. This tournament promises to be a showcase of talent and culture, and the ITRI match ball stands as a testament to African football’s rich history and its future potential.
Fans can look forward to an unforgettable celebration of football, culture, and community as the tournament approaches, with the ITRI ball leading the charge on the field.
