Arsenal will debut Mitre’s new Ultimax Pro match ball in the 2026 Community Shield against Manchester City on Sunday 16 August. The Premier League champions, who finished 7 points clear last season with 85 points (26W-7D-5L), will face Pep Guardiola’s FA Cup winners at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium - the first time the fixture has been held outside England since 2006.
What makes the Ultimax Pro special?
The ball’s design celebrates the return of football, with soundwave graphics and vibrant colours symbolising fan unity. Alex Roberts, Mitre’s Head of Brand, called it "one of my favourite designs yet," featuring Hyperflow grooves for stability and a Hyperfoam mid-layer for control. The silver detailing mirrors the Community Shield trophy itself.
Why Cardiff?
With Wembley unavailable, the match moves to Wales for the first time in 20 years. Mitre will gift match balls to Peter Crouch, John Arne Riise and Andriy Shevchenko, who scored in the last overseas edition in 2006. Arsenal enter the clash on a 5-game winning run (WWWWW), including a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in their last match (2026-05-24).
What’s at stake?
The Gunners and City will battle for the first domestic silverware of the season. Arsenal’s recent form (71 goals scored, +44 goal difference) suggests they’ll be tough to beat, but Guardiola’s side will be hungry to start the campaign with a trophy.
