The Next In Line: Mitre’s Ultimax Returns to Crown Football’s Future Royalty
Mitre’s Ultimax Turns 30 – A Legacy Reimagined with Innovation and a Limited-Edition Launch
This week, British football brand Mitre celebrates a landmark moment in football history: the 30th anniversary of the iconic Ultimax ball. First launched in 1995, the Ultimax quickly became a symbol of Premier League greatness, gracing the feet of legends and defining an era of unforgettable goals.
Now, three decades later, the Ultimax returns — reborn as the Ultimax Pro 30th Anniversary Ball, launching on Tuesday 19th August, exactly 30 years since its debut.
A Tribute to the Past, Engineered for the Future
The Ultimax Pro is more than a nostalgic nod - it’s a technical powerhouse. Engineered for power, precision, and speed, it features Mitre’s latest Hyperflow grooves, reducing drag by 10% for unmatched aerodynamics. A 20% increase in Hyperfoam cushioning ensures cleaner strikes and maximum impact.
Design-wise, it’s a love letter to the original. The classic 6-panel construction returns, now refined with fewer seams for enhanced durability. The signature white, blue, and red graphic is back, elevated with metallic gold Deltas and a pearlised finish - a subtle reference to the traditional 30th wedding anniversary gift. A stylised crown and ‘95 infinity logo seal its place in football folklore.
Introducing ‘The Next In Line’ Campaign
To mark the launch, Mitre unveils its latest campaign: ‘The Next In Line’ - a stirring tribute to legacy, lineage, and the rise of football’s future royalty.
The campaign spotlights three rising stars whose names already echo through football history:
· Raphaella Wright-Phillips – granddaughter of Arsenal legend Ian Wright, now making waves at Chelsea.
· Ruben Butt – son of Manchester United’s Nicky Butt, currently playing for Salford City U18s.
· Jacob Fowler – son of Liverpool icon Robbie Fowler, stepping into the spotlight.
Shot across London and Manchester by award-winning photographer Karis Beaumont, the campaign is a visual homage to football’s generational bond. Each player dons vintage shirts from the 1995/96 season, honouring their family’s legacy while carving out their own.
A Collector’s Dream
Rohaan Nirmalendran, Product & Design Lead at Mitre Sports, shares:
“The Ultimax is true footballing royalty. Back with a majestic new design and campaign, the Ultimax Pro 30th Anniversary Ball is a thing of beauty. Built with category-leading innovation, it lives up to its reputation as one of the most celebrated balls in the game.
