5 things you should know about the AI-powered 2026 FIFA World Cup official match ball

World football governing body FIFA has unveiled the official match ball for the 2026 World Cup. Named the ‘Trionda’, the match ball is powered by AI. Designed by Adidas, the ball has an inbuilt chip system which relays data to the video assistant referee’s (VAR) system.

During yesterday’s unveiling in New York, FIFA explained that the Adidas Trionda, meaning ‘three waves’, is designed to help match officials and players with match decisions facilitated by its tech-enabled tools. These include offside and VAR decisions.

“It’s the most visually playful FIFA World Cup ball we’ve ever created. A piece of craftsmanship built for the biggest stage, that makes you want to hold it, admire it, and above all, play with it,” said Sam Handy, General Manager at Adidas Football.

Adidas noted that Trionda is different from any other match ball ever seen. As its latest evolution of AI-powered connected ball technology, the ball is designed to deliver real-time data and insights that will shape both the referee decisions and tactical analysis across all 104 matches.

“It is set to be the most advanced match ball Adidas has ever created,” he added. 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is jointly hosted by three North American nations: the United States, Mexico and Canada. The competition will also witness participation from 48 footballing nations for the first time in its history.

For FIFA, Trionda is its response to making this edition special. In some sense, FIFA is also embracing the trend of AI and technology to enhance match decisions.

Also Read: Top 5 platforms to stream live football matches on your smartphone.

Five things that make the Trionda special 

1. Chip system 

Trionda is designed by Adidas with a motion sensor chip. This tool, which makes it a Connected Ball Technology, relays data of the ball’s movement to the video assistant referee’s (VAR) system. 

Notably, this ability enhances VAR’s ability to spot match action for decision-making. It’s also an addition to the body cameras, or “ref cams,” used by referees in professional matches, which was recently approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).

2. Player positioning tracker

With its artificial intelligence tool, Trionda can also track players’ positioning data. This helps officials make faster offside and handball decisions by closely tracking each touch of the ball. 

Beyond match officials, experts have noted that the tool will be of significant help to coaches. By providing insights into players’ movement and actions, coaches can identify patterns and trends in players’ positions and make informed team strategy decisions.

3. Optimal in-flight stability 

While other match balls, such as the Brazuca of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, were criticised for their unpredictable flights and instability in direction, Trionda is designed for stability.

Adidas noted that the match ball has an ‘optimal in-flight stability’, thanks to its four-panel construction, deep seams, and ‘strategically placed debossed lines’. This means that while in motion, the stability of the ball is guaranteed. 

With the feature, Trionda helps players with pass accuracy and the ability to predict the ball’s direction.

4. Diverse climate 

Trionda is specifically designed to perform consistently in all 16 host cities across the three countries, which have varying weather conditions. Its extra grip texture ensures the ball feels the same for players regardless of location.

Moreover, this is designed to enhance gameplay and give players a near-best taste of quality footballing experience.

5. About Trionda

Trionda is a combination of two words that honour the three host nations. “Tri” represents the three countries. “Onda” is a Spanish word meaning “wave,” symbolising the collective wave of excitement that will unite the world during the competition.

The ball’s design is reminiscent of the 2014 Brazuca and a combination of three colours for each of the host countries. A blue star for the USA, a red maple leaf for Canada and a green eagle for Mexico.

On the cover image of Trionda is the branding by top players such as Jude Bellingham, Lionel Messi, and Lamine Yamal.

According to FIFA, the ball is out for £119/$160 (~N240,000).

FIFA has also launched its online phased ticket sales procedures, with more than 4.5 million fans from 216 countries and territories entering the pre-sale draw.

The tournament draw will be held in Washington on December 5, while the finals will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026.