FIFA Quality Pro, FIFA Quality and FIFA Basic Explained
What each FIFA mark means, how balls are tested, and how to spot a fake certification.
All balls used in official competition must carry a FIFA mark. Tests are carried out by FIFA-accredited labs and cover weight, circumference, roundness (sphericity), rebound, water absorption, pressure loss and shape retention after repeated impacts.
| Mark | Who it is for | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| FIFA Quality Pro | Professional and top international matches | Tightest tolerances; World Cup and top-league balls. |
| FIFA Quality | Serious amateur, club and school matches | Durability and safety for heavy use; slightly wider tolerances. |
| FIFA Basic | Grassroots and budget-limited clubs | Entry-level certified mark. Replaced the old IMS (International Match Standard) label from 2021; IMS stamps are still common. |
| No certification | Backyard, beach, promotional | No guarantee of size, weight or roundness. |
How to check a ball is genuine
A real FIFA mark carries a licence number. You can check it against FIFA's online Quality Programme database. If the number is missing or doesn't match the model, treat the ball as uncertified.
At soccerballs.shop we only describe a ball as FIFA certified when its licence number has been verified. Until then, product pages show the target certification.
Need help choosing? Try the Ball Finder or ask our team.