Spirit of Football is an independent, fan-led initiative. We're looking for partners and funding for our forthcoming epic 2010 project. To get involved, contact us now at info@spiritoffootball.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Football's Olympic Torch
This legendary football – The Ball – began its existence in 2002 on a pitch in Battersea Park, London, England, where the very first FA-rules football match was played. After the commemorative game finished, it was taken over land and by sea to the World Cup in Korea and Japan.
Every four years, some time before a World Cup is about to start, The Ball makes that journey to the Opening Ceremony over land and by sea, enriching the Football World Cup with a symbol that matches the spirit of the Olympic Flame.
The Ball 2002
The Ball 2002 (Fevernova) was carried 7000 miles across Europe and Asia to the World Cup finals. During the journey it was played with by local people in many villages, towns and cities along the way.
Follow the journey of The Ball 2002 to the World Cup through the Korea & Japan 2002 travelogue. Read people's comments on The Ball's progress, posted as events unfolded. Add a comment if you like.
- Start reading from the beginning
- Watch short videos of the journey
- Follow the journey in Google Earth
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The Ball 2006
The Ball 2006 (Teamgeist) left Battersea Park in May 2006 and headed to the Opening Ceremony in Munich for the 9th June 2006. En route to Germany, The Ball 2006 explored the history of the beautiful game in the countries it visited.
Admittedly less epic than the 2002 pilgrimage, The Ball 2006 still made the most of the journey. You can follow the progress by reading the blog which developed as The Ball made its way to Germany.
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The Ball 2010
The Ball 2010 will be made in South Africa by Alive & Kicking: "an African ball made for the poorest African communities - the very embodiment of development through football in Africa." says James Flecker of Alive & Kicking.
It plans to kick off on a 5-month, 10,000 mile pilgrimage to Johannesburg and will immerse itself in the passion and excitement of the African continent in the run up to the World Cup. We want to share those insights and experiences with a global audience.
We hope that the many positive encounters en route will help The Ball 2010 to become a beautiful symbol for the beautiful game.
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