Molten, the official ball supplier to the International Handball Federation (IHF), has proudly presented the official match ball for the 27th IHF Women’s World Championship. Scheduled to take place in Germany and the Netherlands from 26 November to 14 December 2025, this event marks the third time in history that 32 teams will compete for the world title, underscoring the sport’s ongoing global growth.

This occasion marks the sixth consecutive IHF Women’s World Championship for which Molten will supply the official ball, continuing a partnership that began with the 2015 IHF Men’s World Championship in Denmark. The newly unveiled H2A5000-W5Z match ball was meticulously developed upon the acclaimed A5000 Handball model, already recognised as the standard for all international competitions organised under the IHF.

Distinctive for this edition is the innovative “Sound Wave” design motif. Inspired by the energy of the game and the collective spirit of fans, the ball’s surface features dynamic graphics modeled after sound waves. This bespoke artwork captures the excitement, chants, and cheers that define the live handball experience, merging visual impact with a powerful symbol of unity between players and spectators.

The “Sound Wave” design not only elevates visibility on the court, ensuring optimal performance for the athletes, but also celebrates the emotional intensity and connection that make championship handball unique. Molten and the IHF remain dedicated to promoting handball’s prominence worldwide, and this special edition match ball reflects a shared commitment to excellence, creativity, and the unforgettable atmosphere that accompanies the pinnacle of the women’s game.

The ball features PU leather that provides a soft, textured surface and a snug fit on athletes’ fingertips. This enhanced grip translates to greater control in possession and enables faster, more dynamic gameplay at the elite level. As an IHF-certified game ball, it is engineered for durability and exceptional rebound consistency, making it suitable for the most demanding competitions.

Continuing its commitment to sustainability, Molten has replaced previously synthetic materials with natural alternatives. The company has also optimised its production process by minimising ink usage in the printing of the ball, achieving a 15% reduction in carbon emissions. These measures reflect the ongoing drive to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance or quality.

The Japanese company, which is a long-time partner of the IHF, has provided the official ball of the competition for the past five consecutive editions while also being the official supplier for all competitions organised under the aegis of the International Handball Federation.

The 2025 IHF Women's World Championship is scheduled to take place between 26 November and 14 December in five venues over Germany and the Netherlands. In the Netherlands, Rotterdam and 's-Hertogenbosch will host the competition, while in Germany the venues are Trier, Stuttgart and Dortmund. The final weekend of the competition is due to take place in the Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam.