The 2023 AFC Asian Cup, which will be held in Qatar between January 12 and February 10, 2024, got one step closer to reality when the Asian Football Confederation, along with Kelme, unveiled the tournament’s official match ball on Thursday.

It was a new milestone on the way to the much-anticipated competition, which is coming to Qatar for the third time after 1988 and 2011.

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Introducing the official match ball for #AsianCup2023, #VORTEXAC23!#OfficialMatchBall | #LeaveYourMark pic.twitter.com/KFcklWMvvG

— #AsianCup2023 (@afcasiancup) August 10, 2023

VORTEXAC23, designed to capture the excitement, passion, and speed of the game, incorporates the iconic maroon colours of the host nation Qatar.

The ball’s design also parallels the emblem of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, which is featured at its centre, drawing inspiration from the emblem’s unique colours and shapes to encapsulate the spirit of the competition as well as that of Asian football.

VORTEXAC23, designed by Kelme — AFC’s Official Global Supporter of National Team Competitions — is exclusively made for the tournament in Qatar. The ball underwent extensive technical testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of performance, quality, durability, and readiness for use in competition.

AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “The AFC is delighted to mark our latest milestone in our journey ahead of the upcoming edition of Asia’s crown jewel — the unveiling of the official match ball for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 — with our valued partner Kelme.

“Similar to the journey of the AFC Asian Cup, Kelme has established its presence as one of the world’s leading brands in sport and we’re confident the innovative design and technology produced by Kelme will provide Asia’s top 24 teams with a match ball of the highest quality,” he said. 

Dive into the innovation behind the VORTEXAC23 Official Match Ball #VORTEXAC23 #AsianCup2023 pic.twitter.com/HnkrryqbVn

— #AsianCup2023 (@afcasiancup) August 11, 2023

KELME Chairman, Ke Yongxiang, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with the AFC to develop the official match ball VORTEXAC23 that not only meets the high standards of professional players, but also embodies the excitement and passion of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. We’re excited to see VORTEXAC23 in action during the tournament.”

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