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CAF Unveils AFCON 2025 Official Match Ball “ITRI” Inspired By Moroccan Zellij Art
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled the match ball for the highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to be hosted by Morocco.
Named ITRI, the new ball is a masterpiece inspired by Morocco’s traditional zellij art, celebrated for its vibrant geometric mosaics and intricate craftsmanship. The design symbolizes unity, creativity, and the unbreakable passion that binds African football across the continent.
According to CAF, the name ITRI – which means star in Amazigh – pays homage to the star on the Moroccan flag and reflects the symbolic star patterns found in zellij artwork, merging cultural pride with football excellence.
Mohamed Ghonemi, CAF’s Creative Development Manager, emphasized the cultural and emotional depth behind the design:
“Created for the rhythm of African football, the AFCON 2025 ball brings together art, motion, and a design shaped by African spirit and Moroccan craftsmanship. It’s been a privilege to collaborate with PUMA on something that unites every nation at the tournament through a shared sense of connection.”
The ITRI ball, designed in partnership with PUMA, will make its grand debut in the tournament’s opening match between Morocco and Comoros on Sunday, 21 December 2025.
The AFCON 2025 finals will run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, promising a month of world-class football, cultural celebration, and African pride.
At Sports Market International, we celebrate the stories that connect art, culture, and sport across Africa — bringing you the latest updates from the best sports blog covering the global sports market.
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