Aerodynamic comparisons between Al Rihla and recent World Cup soccer balls

Abstract

Wind-tunnel experiments were performed on Al Rihla, Telstar 18, Brazuca, and Jabulani, official match soccer balls used in the World Cup in 2022, 2018, 2014, and 2010, respectively. Aerodynamic coefficients extracted from wind-tunnel results were used to create computer simulations of trajectories of kicked soccer balls. The newest World Cup ball, Al Rihla, could be kicked for longer range compared to its recent predecessors. But there is also the possibility that knuckling effects at large speeds could be seen in the flights of the new ball kicked with little to no spin. Measurements were made of each soccer ball’s total seam length and seam width and depth. Two different measurement techniques were employed to assist with accuracy. Wider and deeper seams led to smaller critical speeds.