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In a world where global sporting events bring nations together and showcase the best of human potential, the FIFA World Cup holds a place of unmatched prestige. For the 2026 edition of this iconic tournament, an extraordinary story of pride and craftsmanship is unfolding far from the stadiums in the bustling, industrious city of Sialkot, Pakistan.
Forward Sports, a homegrown manufacturing company in Sialkot, has once again put Pakistan on the global map by securing the prestigious contract to produce the official ball for the FIFA World Cup 2026. This remarkable achievement is not just a win for one company or one city; it’s a moment of national pride, a celebration of skill, dedication, and resilience that defines Pakistani craftsmanship.
Known as the heart of Pakistan’s sports manufacturing industry, Sialkot has long been a silent contributor to global athletics. From stitching cricket bats to crafting high-performance footballs, this city has supplied equipment for world champions across continents. But this recent announcement has taken things to a whole new level and rightly so. The world’s most-watched football event will now feature a ball proudly “Made in Sialkot”, carrying with it the hands and hopes of thousands of local artisans.
This isn’t the first time Forward Sports has stepped onto the world stage. The company has been associated with Adidas and FIFA for over a decade, crafting official match balls for previous tournaments like the 2014 Brazuca, 2018 Telstar, and 2022 Al Rihla. But with the 2026 World Cup ball, the spotlight shines even brighter on Pakistan’s consistent excellence and trusted quality.
So how did a company from a small industrial city in Pakistan become the official supplier of footballs for the biggest sporting event in the world? Let’s dive into this inspiring journey of ambition, legacy, and pride.
Pakistan might not be playing on the field at the FIFA World Cup, but it's making a massive impact from behind the scenes thanks to the powerhouse city of Sialkot and its global brand, Forward Sports.
For decades, Sialkot has quietly fueled the dreams of athletes worldwide by manufacturing world-class sports equipment, especially footballs. Today, that quiet legacy roars loud as Forward Sports becomes the official ball producer for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Located in Punjab, Sialkot is a city that thrives on craftsmanship and export excellence. Here’s why it matters:
Produces over 70% of the world’s hand-stitched footballs
Home to more than 1,000 sports goods manufacturing units
Exports to over 120 countries, including Europe, USA, and the Middle East
Employs tens of thousands of skilled workers
Fun Fact: Every second, a football made in Sialkot is being kicked somewhere in the world!
Founded in the 1990s, Forward Sports has come a long way. It started as a small stitching unit and grew into an internationally recognized brand. Its long-standing relationship with Adidas and FIFA is proof of its consistent quality and innovation.
| Year | Event | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | FIFA World Cup – Brazil | Made the Brazuca ball |
| 2018 | FIFA World Cup – Russia | Produced the Telstar 18 |
| 2022 | FIFA World Cup – Qatar | Crafted the Al Rihla ball |
| 2026 | FIFA World Cup – USA, Canada, Mexico | Official ball made in Sialkot again |
Proves Pakistan’s capability in high-tech manufacturing
Boosts international trust in Pakistani craftsmanship
Inspires young entrepreneurs to build world-class brands from local cities
Puts Sialkot and Pakistan on the global innovation map
From dusty workshops to the grand stadiums of the FIFA World Cup, the journey of Sialkot and Forward Sports is nothing short of legendary. It’s a story of resilience, innovation, and pride stitched into every panel of a football that’s about to make history.
With the global spotlight on the FIFA World Cup 2026, all eyes will also be on the official match ball, not just for how it performs, but where it comes from. Behind every kick, pass, and goal lies the meticulous work of Pakistani hands and technology, all coming together in Sialkot’s legendary Forward Sports.
Crafting a football for the biggest sporting event on the planet is no ordinary task it demands precision, performance, and passion. The ball for the FIFA World Cup 2026 checks all those boxes.
“We are proud that Forward Sports has once again been trusted by FIFA and Adidas,” said Khawaja Masood Akhtar, CEO of Forward Sports.
Advanced Panel Technology: Designed for consistent flight and control
Eco-Friendly Materials: Includes water-based inks & glues, sustainability matters
Thermal Bonding Technique: Ensures durability, even under extreme weather conditions
AI-Backed Testing: Each ball is tested for shape, weight, bounce, and water absorption
Over one million footballs will be produced, including training balls, promotional editions, and the official match balls.
Did you know? Each ball goes through exactly 17 quality control checks before being packed for FIFA.
This isn’t just about manufacturing a football. It’s about what it represents for Pakistan.
Validates Pakistan’s role in global sports innovation
Offers thousands of jobs in Sialkot’s sports sector
Builds a strong “Made in Pakistan” identity internationally
Inspires other local manufacturers to reach global standards
“Pakistan to supply official match ball for FIFA World Cup 2026” Arab News
“Sialkot’s Forward Sports selected by Adidas for World Cup ball” ProPakistani
“A proud moment for Pakistan's manufacturing industry” Daily Pakistan
Soft power at its finest: Through craftsmanship, Pakistan enters the hearts of football fans across the world.
For years, Pakistan’s sports goods were known to the industry but rarely recognized by the global consumer. That narrative is now changing.
“Made in Pakistan” is no longer just a label; it’s a symbol of world-class quality and trust.
Following media coverage of this achievement, interest from international buyers has spiked, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
Forward Sports’ partnership with Adidas and FIFA acts as a stamp of excellence,e making it easier for other Pakistani brands to penetrate international markets.
Sports goods exports reached $400+ million in FY2024–25
A projected 10–15% increase is expected post-World Cup exposure
New trade agreements in talks with emerging sports markets (e.g., Africa, Southeast Asia)
This deal has had a powerful trickle-down effect on the economy of Sialkot and beyond.
Thousands of new jobs have been created in football stitching, packaging, logistics, and machine handling.
With increased demand, many local SMEs (small & medium enterprises) are now expanding operations and hiring fresh talent.
Youth in Sialkot are being inspired to learn trade skills and start businesses, contributing to a culture of local entrepreneurship.
“This isn't just a job, it's pride stitched into every ball,” says Ayesha, a skilled stitcher working at Forward Sports.
Government bodies like the Pakistan Sports Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PSGMEA) have also stepped up to support training, certification, and export facilitation.
In a time when global perception matters more than ever, this moment serves as a soft power breakthrough for Pakistan.
News of the FIFA World Cup ball being made in Sialkot has been covered by CNN, Al Jazeera, Reuters, Arab News, and countless social platforms.
Pakistan is no longer just a player in textile or agriculture; it's now viewed as a credible manufacturing innovator.
This achievement builds national morale, offering a shared story of excellence that unites people across provinces and generations.
It’s a rare blend of sports, business, diplomacy, and pride all rolled into one football.
In a world where headlines are often dominated by politics and problems, this story from Sialkot gives us something to truly celebrate. The news that Pakistan, through Forward Sport,s is producing the official match ball for FIFA World Cup 2026 is more than just an achievement in manufacturing; it's a powerful symbol of what we’re capable of as a nation.
From the factory floors of Sialkot to the grand stadiums of the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a piece of Pakistan will be present in every kick, every goal, and every cheer. It’s not just a football, it’s a canvas stitched with hope, talent, and national pride.
Let’s take a moment to recognize:
The skilled artisans whose hands bring quality to life
The leadership of companies like Forward Sports who dared to dream big
The role of cities like Sialkot proves that even local towns can make global waves
As Pakistan steps into the global spotlight with this remarkable feat, it’s also stepping into a new chapter, one where “Made in Pakistan” stands for quality, innovation, and excellence.
Celebrate this achievement, share it proudly on social media, because when Pakistan wins like this, we all win.
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