What does RPS stand for? Many people have been left confused as broadcasters display the ball statistics at UEFA EURO 2024.
At times during this summer’s tournament, ITV or the BBC have displayed a graphic showcasing the distance, speed and spin of the ball whenever a particularly impressive goal has been scored.
Distance is measured with a simple m – meaning metres from goal – while speed is judged by km/h, of course meaning kilometres per hour.
Both metrics are quite commonly known, but in regards to spin, the term RPS has confused a few.
So, what does RPS stand for at UEFA EURO 2024? Let’s take a look…
What does RPS stand for?
As cricket fans reading this may know, RPS stands for revolutions per second.
Basically, that just means the number of times the ball revolves in the air each second after it has been kicked – so a knuckleball strike, for example, may only involve one or two RPS as it primarily sits still in the air.
Hardly the most crucial piece of information to know about the tournament – of course – but still, something to impress your family and friends with, at least.
Romania certainly made good use of this graphic on Monday afternoon during a resounding 3-0 win over Ukraine, in which Nicolae Stanciu opened the scoring with a devilishly whipped effort, which UEFA measured at a whopping 21 RPS.
Unprecedented technology at UEFA EURO 2024
UEFA are able to measure this data thanks to the unprecedented FUSSBALLLIEBE ball.
The adidas creation – which translates to “love of football” in German – involves Connected Ball Technology in a match ball for the first time ever at the European Championships.
Adidas have also implemented something they describe as CTR-CORE for the outer layer of the ball, which UEFA state is designed for “accuracy and consistency, supporting fast, precise play with maximum shape and air retention” – advanced stuff.
Hopefully, football fans get to see more of the RPS graphic throughout UEFA EURO 2024 – as it usually means an absolute rocket of a strike has been scored.