Macron and NIKÉ LIGA are happy to present “ESENCIA”, the new official match ball for the 2026/27 season of Slovakia’s top-flight football league. Marking the beginning of the partnership between the Italian sportswear brand and Niké Liga, the project embodies the perfect blend of technological innovation, performance and visual identity. The result is a ball developed to meet the demands of the game at the highest level.
Designed at the Macron Campus in Bologna in collaboration with Niké Liga, “ESENCIA” is FIFA Quality Pro certified and has been engineered to deliver outstanding performance in every match situation. Its 16-panel construction and textured PU surface ensure precise flight paths, optimal control and a natural touch, providing players with a high-performance playing experience.
Every detail has been developed to meet the requirements of modern professional football, combining reliability, technical excellence and long-lasting performance. The ball features an advanced outer layer made from next-generation Japanese Microfiber PU, developed to achieve the ideal balance of comfort, control and accuracy. The distinctive three-dimensional micro-textured surface enhances grip and contributes to greater aerodynamic stability, promoting more accurate and consistent trajectories. The material has also been designed to minimise water absorption and maintain top-level performance even in the most demanding weather conditions. The thermobonded construction eliminates traditional stitching, improving water resistance, durability and surface uniformity.
From an aesthetic perspective, “ESENCIA” stands out for its dynamic and contemporary design, expressing energy, speed and movement. The vibrant orange and yellow tones, combined with black detailing, not only reflect Niké Liga’s visual identity, but also create a striking visual impact and ensure maximum visibility both on the pitch and on television broadcasts. Enriching the design is a distinctive graphic mark inspired by the expression “GOOOL” translated into Morse code — a subtle yet powerful tribute to the most iconic emotion in football. The ball is further elevated by the presence of the trophy that will be awarded to the winning team at the end of the season, turning “ESENCIA” into a symbol of ambition, celebration and ultimate achievement.
Particular attention has also been paid to the manufacturing process. Water-based inks have been used for the graphics, a choice that underlines Macron’s commitment to increasingly innovative and responsible solutions aimed at minimising the environmental impact of its products.
“ESENCIA” will be introduced to Niké Liga clubs from the start of pre-season training, becoming an integral part of the daily work of players and coaching staff ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Created to allow fans to enjoy the same experience as the stars of Niké Liga, the new official Macron match ball, “ESENCIA”, is available online in the dedicated Slovak league section of Macron’s website and through authorised Macron retailers.
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