"Very Bad": Neymar Criticizes Penalty Ball Used in Brazilian Championship

Feb 16, 2025

by Chris

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Neymar's Criticism: Neymar and other players are heavily criticizing the official Penalty S11 Ecoknit match ball used in the Brazilian Championship, calling its quality "very bad."
Ball's Characteristics & Issues: The Penalty S11 Ecoknit ball, made from recycled materials and featuring a 14-panel design, is criticized for its unpredictable behavior in the air.
Penalty's Response: Penalty defends the ball, citing its FIFA Quality Pro certification and claiming it leads to more goals, while also promising dialogue with players and clubs.

Brazilian star Neymar, as well as other players, have strongly criticized the quality of the official Penalty S11 Ecoknit match ball being used in the 2025 São Paulo State Championship, following Santos' 2-1 defeat in the São Paulo derby.

"With all due respect to Penalty, who is the sponsor, the ball needs to improve. The other day, Philip Louis spoke, and I agree with him. This ball is very bad," Neymar stated after the match, particularly highlighting issues with the ball's behavior in aerial duels.

The criticized Penalty S11 Ecoknit ball, which features a 14-panel design and is made from recycled materials, including PET bottles, has also drawn criticism from other players. Corinthians goalkeeper Hugo Souza was particularly direct in his assessment: "The ball is horrible. Sorry for the expression, but it's horrible."

Defender André Ramalho added to the criticism: "It really is a different ball. I realized that in air duels she has unexpected behavior. Out of nowhere, it looks like she fell."

In a press release, Penalty has defended its product, citing its FIFA Quality Pro certification and claiming the ball was developed for higher speed and dynamism. According to the manufacturer, this has resulted in a 19% increase in goals compared to 2024. The company has pledged to open dialogue with clubs and players.