Official World Cup Soccer Ball 1978  

Soccer ball design experienced another revolution in 1978 with the introduction of the Adidas Tango. Adidas had created what would become a ‘football design classic’. Twenty panels with ‘triads’ created the impression of 12 identical circles. For the following five FIFA World Cup tournaments, the Match Ball design was based on this design. Tango featured improved weather resistance qualities, and took its inspiration from the deep passion, emotion and elegance of Argentina.

The Tango became a successful model. The Tango was

also used at the Olympic Games and in the

European Cup. 

Thank you Jens Badinski for the above pictures!

The above Tango River Plate picture was provided by Sebastiano Calì from Italy. Thanks!

The above picture of a Tango WC 1978 ball with the box has been provided by Philip Osman from Wales, UK. Thanks!

Back to : History of the World Cup Official Soccer Balls

Other Soccer Ball History Information on Soccer Ball World

• Early Ball History
• Balls in the 1800's
• Goodyear's 1855 Soccer Ball
• Soccer Balls in the 1900's
• First World Cup Soccer Ball with team pictures
• Synthetic Soccer Balls
• The Buckminster Soccer Ball
• 2000 and beyond

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