Mitre has unveiled the official match ball for the 2026-27 Women's FA Cup, with the new ball set to be used in competitive action for the first time on Sunday, 25 October. The First Round Proper features 96 clubs across 48 ties, and Exeter City's match against Hashtag United is the opening televised fixture.
Design and concept
The ball is built on Mitre's Ultimax Pro framework and uses lime, purple, and black. Its visual layout incorporates overlapping colours meant to represent the growing diversity and collective strength of the women's game, while metallic accents on Mitre's Delta chevrons are described as a nod to the cup trophy.
Mitre's head of brand, Alex Roberts, said: "What makes the competition so special is that every club has the opportunity to write its own story. Whether that's a grassroots team producing an unforgettable cup upset or a player scoring the winning goal at Wembley, this competition gives teams and players alike, the opportunity to etch themselves into history."
Technical details
The six-panel ball has a 20 per cent increase in Hyperfoam cushioning. Aerodynamic drag has been cut by 10 per cent compared to previous iterations, and the ball uses thermally bonded seams that prevent water absorption and guarantee shape retention.
The ball also has the FIFA Quality Pro stamp of approval.
Competition schedule
The new ball will first be used on Sunday, 25 October. The final is scheduled for Wembley Stadium on Saturday, 15 May 2027.
FA reaction
The FA’s head of partnerships, Sarah Kendall, said: "This season’s new match ball captures that spirit and reflects the ambition, energy and excitement surrounding the competition. Mitre have done a fantastic job creating a bold and distinctive design."
Sarah Kendall also said the tournament unites teams across the English football pyramid.