De Ballen van de Tour de France

For the Grand Départ of the 2010 Tour de France in Rotterdam, art producer Mothership conceived a spectacular opening concept: four giant beach balls in the colors of the iconic cycling jerseys — yellow, green, white, and polka dot. These would not only serve as the symbolic starting signal, but also remain visible throughout the Tour as striking visual icons. Instead of a traditional starting gun, the balls were to be released simultaneously from the rooftops of Rotterdam’s buildings.

After their release, the balls are guided through the crowd and along a designated route to the Rijnhaven, where they symbolically continue their “journey” toward Paris. Along the way, smaller versions reappear along the route as colorful reminders of Rotterdam as the host city. Together, they enhance the city’s international visibility — a playful, sustainable, and media-friendly artwork capturing the energy of the event.

The balls were technically developed in two variants: a robust PVC version, partially filled with helium for controlled movement during the drop, and lighter nylon versions equipped with fans for continuous inflation. Safety, weather conditions, and locations — including the Luxor Theatre and the courthouse — were all carefully considered in the design. Through their size, color, and motion, the balls gave Rotterdam a recurring visual presence throughout the Tour — a creative gesture full of energy, symbolism, and public engagement.