World Cup Soccer Ball Aerodynamics

 

John Eric Goff

Professor of Physics
University of Lynchburg
Lynchburg, Virginia 24501

Wed, April 5, 2023 - 4:00 PM
Karl F. Herzfeld Auditorium of Hannan Hall - Rm 108

I will discuss research I have performed with colleagues at the University of Tsukuba in Japan that centers on the aerodynamics of soccer balls. We have used trajectory analysis of filmed balls in flight and wind tunnels to better understand how panel shapes and surface features influence aerodynamic coefficients. We have also employed 3D printing to create balls that allow us to use surface features to predict the transition from laminar flow to turbulent flow as ball speed increases.

Goff conducted research on World Cup soccer balls that shed light on problems with the Jabulani ball, which was used in South Africa in 2010, and highlighted successes with the Brazuca ball (Brazil 2014), the Telstar 18 ball (Russia 2018), and the Al Rihla ball (Qatar 2022). The accuracy of his modeling of the Tour de France has earned him appearances in worldwide media, including CNN International, the Washington Post and National Public Radio, among other news outlets. His most recent appearance on StarTalk saw him discussing the physics of the new World Cup soccer ball.

Refreshments served at 3:45 PM

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