Reviving a Football Icon: The Story Behind the Mitre Ultimax Pro

In 1995, Mitre’s Ultimax made its debut in England’s Premier League – the country’s top professional football league – and became an icon of the sport’s golden era. Known for its precision, power and the record of being the first ball to break the 100mph barrier, it was the choice of some of the most celebrated players of the time.

Now, three decades later, the Ultimax returns as the Ultimax Pro: a limited edition ball that blends the original’s heritage with today’s most advanced technology.

We spoke with Beth Fletcher Hunt, Senior Marketing Manager for Mitre, about why this launch is such a milestone for the brand, how the design honours the past while pushing performance forward, and why the “Next in Line” campaign connects football’s legends with its rising stars.

Hi Beth! What does relaunching the Ultimax mean for Mitre in 2025?

Relaunching the Ultimax in 2025 is a real statement for Mitre. It’s about honouring our legacy while showing we’re firmly focused on what’s next. The original Ultimax was a symbol of innovation in its time, and bringing it back with cutting-edge tech, shows how we’re evolving as a brand. It’s not just a nostalgic moment; it’s a signal of intent. We’re proud of our heritage, but we’re also here to lead in performance and design. The Ultimax Pro is proof that Mitre can celebrate the past while setting the pace for what’s next.

For those outside the UK, why was the original Ultimax such a big deal in world football history?

The Ultimax was a game changer, and ahead of its time when it launched in 1995. It was the first football to break the 100mph barrier – it set a new benchmark for performance. But, beyond the tech, it became iconic because of the moments and goals scored with it. It was the ball used in the Premier League’s golden era, when legends like Cantona, Shearer, Robbie Fowler and Ian Wright were lighting up the pitch. It’s a ball that unpacks so many memories, nostalgic moments and there’s a real love for it and it’s a huge part of Mitre’s DNA

What’s the biggest innovation leap from the original to the Ultimax Pro?

The biggest leap is definitely in how the ball moves through the air. We’ve introduced new Hyperflow grooves that reduce drag by 10%*, which basically means it cuts through the air cleanly and consistently. It’s our most aerodynamic ball yet. The original had 25 stitched panels – now we’ve got just six, thermally bonded, so it’s super durable and totally water-resistant. And with 20% more Hyperfoam cushioning, it feels more responsive and powerful when you strike it. It’s a proper evolution yet all the spirit of the original. 

How did you approach blending heritage design with modern performance?

It was all about balance. We knew the Ultimax had a strong legacy, so we wanted to honour that with a design that felt instantly recognisable to fans of the original – from the new panel shape based on the original, to the colour palette and creating a new infinity style ‘95 logo with a nod to the golden era and a pearlised finish to symbolise the 30th anniversary gift. But at the same time, we didn’t want it to feel like a throwback. The performance side had to lead, so we worked closely with our product innovation team to integrate the latest tech without compromising the heritage aesthetic. The result is a ball that looks like a classic but it’s set for the future.

The campaign spotlights footballing families. Why was that an important story to tell?

Football is full of legacy – not just in clubs and trophies, but in families and memories that come with that. The original Ultimax defined a generation of 90s players, so it felt right to spotlight the next generation who are carrying that legacy forward. That’s why the campaign is centred around ‘The next in line’ – recognising the next generation of players and a new generation of the Mitre Ultimax. Working with Raphaella Wright-Phillips (Daughter of Shaun, Granddaughter of Ian Wright), Ruben Butt (Nicky Butt’s son), and Jacob Fowler (Son of Robbie Fowler) wasn’t just about name recognition – it was about showing how football’s passion and talent are passed down. There’s something really powerful about seeing them wear the same kits their parent or grandparent wore and knowing they’re writing their own stories in football now. It made the campaign feel personal, authentic, and rooted in heritage.

This is a limited edition run. What makes it a must have for players, fans, and collectors?

With only 400 balls released globally, the Ultimax Pro is incredibly limited, making it a true collector’s item. For players, it’s Mitre’s most aerodynamic ball to date, engineered for speed, precision, and power – and we can’t wait to bring this ball into our sponsored competitions later this year. For fans, it’s a tribute to one of the most iconic eras in football history. And I’m sure it will evoke lots of memories and feelings associated with that time 30 years ago.

And finally… if the Ultimax Pro could speak, what do you think it would say about its return?

I think it would say: ‘I’m back, I’m the next in line – I may look a little like my dad (The original) but I’m faster, sharper, and ready to make history all over again.

*Measured through virtual simulations at 50kph and 100kph vs. previous Ultimax Pro.