The official match ball for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will need a full charge before kick-off, operating much like a smartphone due to its advanced internal sensor system.
Named “Trionda,” the Adidas-developed ball will be used throughout the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
It features a connected-ball system designed to provide video assistant referees (VAR) with faster and more accurate data during key match decisions.
At its core is a 500Hz motion sensor chip that captures positioning and movement data 500 times per second.
The unit records touch, velocity, spin and directional changes in real time, feeding information directly into the VAR hub.
This is then synced with stadium tracking cameras to generate a live three-dimensional model of play.
Referees will use the combined data to review tight calls, including handballs, boundary decisions and fouls.
FIFA officials say pinpointing the exact moment of contact is critical in resolving complex offside situations.
Weighing just 14 grams, the microchip is embedded in one of Trionda’s four panels.
Adidas engineers have balanced the design to ensure flight stability and aerodynamics remain unaffected. A design representative said players are unlikely to notice any difference on the pitch.
The onboard rechargeable battery provides up to six hours of continuous tracking on a single charge, enough to cover a full match and extra time if needed.
Connected-ball technology was first introduced at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but the 2026 version processes data faster and integrates more seamlessly with Hawk-Eye and goal-line systems.
Trionda also introduces a structural change, using a thermally bonded four-panel design, the fewest panels ever used on an official World Cup ball.
Its red, green and blue colour scheme features a maple leaf, an eagle and a star, representing the three host nations.
The ball will retail at Sh22,100 (£130), making it the most expensive standard match ball used at a World Cup. It will debut when the tournament kicks off on June 11.