IFAB Law 2 & Aerodynamic Drag
Ball Pressure & Altitude Aerodynamics
Why does a free-kick swerve significantly less in Mexico City or La Paz? Discover how air density and IFAB Law 2 inflation pressure (0.6 to 1.1 bar) alter ball flight velocity and Magnus effect curvature.
Interactive Altitude & Aerodynamic Flight Simulator
Air Density ($\rho$):
0.96 kg/m³ (-22%)
Ball Flight Speed Increase:
+11.5% Faster
Magnus Effect Swerve Reduction:
-22.4% Less Curve
At Estadio Azteca (2,240m), thinner air creates less frictional drag against the ball's polyurethane panels. Long shots reach the goal faster, but curve significantly less, making dipping free-kicks harder to control.