Handball: Bundesliga Launches New 2026/27 Game Ball

“`html

Handball Bundesliga To Standardize Game Ball With select Partnership

Published by Archyde, https://www.archyde.com.

Handball-Bundliga GmbH and Select have announced a landmark agreement. this collaboration will introduce a uniform official game ball across both the Daikin Handball bundesliga (HBL) and the 2nd Handball Bundesliga, beginning with the 2026/27 season.

for the first time, all 612 games – 306 from the Daikin HBL and 306 from the 2nd HBL – will utilize the same Select ball model. The partnership extends to prestigious HBL events, including the Lidl Final4 and the Handball Super Cup, which will also feature Select balls.

Joachim Böhmer, COO of Derbystar, emphasized the significance of this partnership. He stated it represents a historic milestone for the brand and a strong signal for German professional handball. This expands selects international presence alongside existing partnerships with the EHF European Championship, EHF Champions League, and French LNH.

Jan Przemus, Marketing Management at Handball-Bundliga GmbH, highlighted the benefits of a standardized ball. He explained that it creates objective competitive conditions and ensures a consistently high quality for all teams. Fans can anticipate a modern, uniform ball design with a clear and recognizable color scheme.

The Importance of Ball Standardization in Handball

Standardizing the game ball is a important step for the Handball Bundesliga. It ensures fairness and consistency across all matches, eliminating any potential advantage gained from varying ball characteristics. This decision is expected to enhance the overall sporting experience for players and fans alike.

The Select brand is well-regarded within the handball community. Its reputation for quality and performance makes it an ideal partner for the Bundesliga. This collaboration is poised to elevate the league’s profile and contribute to its continued growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About the HBL Ball Partnership

What is the main change coming to the Handball Bundesliga?

The Handball Bundesliga will now use a single, standardized game ball provided by Select for all matches in both the HBL and 2nd HBL.

When will this new ball standardization take effect?

the uniform ball usage will begin with the 2026/27 season.

Which brand will be providing the official game ball?

Select will be the official game ball provider for the Daikin Handball Bundesliga and the 2nd Handball Bundesliga.

Will the Lidl Final4 also use the Select ball?

Yes, the Lidl Final4 and the handball Super Cup will also feature Select balls, with a specially designed ball for the Final4.

What are the benefits of using a standardized handball?

A standardized ball ensures objective competitive conditions and benefits the entire sporting area due to its high and uniform quality.

What does this partnership mean for Select?

This partnership expands Select’s international commitment and adds to its existing partnerships with major European handball organizations.

What are your thoughts on this exciting development for the handball Bundesliga?

How might the new ball’s predictable trajectory impact handball team strategies?

The Evolution of Handball Equipment: A Focus on the Official Ball

the German Handball Bundesliga, a premier league for professional handball, consistently pushes boundaries in athletic performance and technological innovation. A crucial element of this progress is the official game ball. Ahead of the 2026/27 season, the Bundesliga has announced a new official game ball, promising enhanced grip, improved flight characteristics, and a more dynamic playing experience for athletes and fans alike. This article delves into the details of the new ball, its progress, and what it means for the future of handball.

Key Features of the 2026/27 Bundesliga Handball

The new ball represents a significant leap forward in handball technology. While the manufacturer hasn’t been officially announced as of July 8th, 2025, sources indicate a collaboration with a leading sports equipment company specializing in ball development. Here’s a breakdown of the anticipated key features:

New Panel Design: Departing from traditional two-panel construction,the 2026/27 ball features a redesigned panel structure,potentially utilizing an 8-panel or 12-panel configuration. This aims to create a more consistent surface and improve aerodynamic stability.

Advanced Material Composition: The outer layer is expected to incorporate a new synthetic leather material, offering superior grip even in humid conditions. This addresses a common concern for players, particularly during intense matches.

Optimized Bladder Technology: The internal bladder will utilize a latext-free butyl bladder,designed for enhanced air retention and consistent rebound. This contributes to a more predictable ball trajectory.

Enhanced Visual Design: The ball’s color scheme and graphic elements will be updated to reflect the Bundesliga’s branding and provide improved visibility for players and spectators. Expect vibrant colors and a modern aesthetic.

Weight and Size Compliance: The ball will, of course, adhere to the strict weight and size regulations set by the International Handball Federation (IHF) to ensure fair play and consistency across all levels of competition.(Weight: 425-475 grams,Size: 58-60 cm for men’s handball).

The Development Process: From Lab to Court

The development of a new Bundesliga handball isn’t a swift process. It involves extensive research, testing, and collaboration with players and coaches.

1. Material Research: Identifying and testing new synthetic materials for optimal grip,durability,and water resistance.
2. Aerodynamic Testing: Utilizing wind tunnels and computer simulations to analyze the ball’s flight characteristics and identify areas for improvement.
3. Player Feedback: Conducting trials with Bundesliga players to gather feedback on grip,feel,and performance in real-game scenarios. this is crucial for ensuring the ball meets the needs of professional athletes.
4. Durability Testing: Subjecting the ball to rigorous testing to assess its resistance to abrasion, impact, and wear and tear.
5. IHF Certification: Ensuring the final product meets all IHF standards for official handball balls.

Impact on Gameplay: what to Expect

The introduction of a new handball can subtly, yet significantly, impact gameplay. Here’s how the 2026/27 bundesliga ball is expected to influence the sport:

Increased Shooting Accuracy: The improved grip and consistent surface will likely lead to more accurate shots, particularly from long range.

Faster Ball Speed: The optimized aerodynamic design could result in faster ball speeds, demanding quicker reflexes from goalkeepers.

enhanced Passing Precision: Players will benefit from the ball’s predictable trajectory, allowing for more precise passing and improved team play.

Greater Goalkeeper Challenges: The combination of increased speed and accuracy will present new challenges for goalkeepers, requiring them to react faster and anticipate shots more effectively.

Potential for New Tactical Approaches: Coaches may adapt thier strategies to capitalize on the ball’s enhanced characteristics, potentially leading to more dynamic and attacking handball.

Bundesliga’s History with Game Ball Innovation

The Bundesliga has a history of embracing innovation in handball equipment. In 2024/25, the league saw the Füchse Berlin win their first deutsche meisterschaft. While the specific ball used during that season wasn’t a revolutionary change, it represented a continuous refinement of existing technologies.The 2026/27 ball, however, is positioned as a more significant upgrade, reflecting the Bundesliga’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of the sport.

Were to Purchase the New Bundesliga Handball

Details regarding retail availability will be announced closer to the 2026/27 season launch. However, fans can expect to purchase the official Bundesliga handball through:

The Bundesliga Online Shop: The official online store will be the primary source for purchasing the ball.

Major Sports Retailers: Leading sports retailers across Germany and internationally will likely carry the new ball.

* Team Shops: Individual Bundesliga team shops may also offer the ball for sale