Werder Bremen have extended their cooperation with ball specialists 'Derbystar', signing a new and improved contract which is valid until June 2009.

Champions League participants Werder have been using the Derbystar 'Brilliant APS' ball in all home games and during training for a decade now. Both training staff and the players are convinced of the quality of the German trade mark ball. The simple white ball, which has not followed the trend to constantly change it's design over the years, has made a mark of it's own on the pitch.

Football players are often superstitious, but that is not the reason for the team remaining true to the Derbystar ball. Werder general manager Klaus Allofs explained: "The premature contract extension was born out of circumstance. Werder Bremens technical demands and fast style of play call for a ball which suits these traits. The Derbystar ball possesses a precise bouncing property, a stable flight and is easily trackable by dribbling. With that, the 'Derbystar' ball achieves the high expectations of our players in every aspect."

For Werder Bremens Champions League (possible) decider against Panathinaikos Athens, Derbystar will present a ground breaking new design. The white ball will recieve a TV friendly sash in Werder 'Green'. With this specialised design, Werder will play their future home games in all European competitions.