NEW DELHI: FIFA has unveiled the official match ball for the 2026 World Cup, combining high-tech refinements and design details celebrating the three co-host countries—the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The ball, called Trionda, was again designed by German manufacturer Adidas, provider of the official World Cup balls since the 1970 tournament.
“I am delighted and proud to present the Trionda,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said as the ball was revealed at an event in New York on Thursday.
The first World Cup organised by three countries, with 48 teams competing, inspired both the name and the design of the ball featuring red, blue and green colors.
Iconography from each host nation—maple leaves from Canada, the eagle from Mexico and stars from the United States also feature, with a triangle referring to the unity of the three countries.
Less visible are technological advancements that include deep seams designed to produce “optimal in-flight stability” and embossed icons that improve grip in wet or humid conditions.
A motion sensor chip will relay information on the ball’s movement, sending data to the video assistant referee (VAR) system.
The unveiling marks another step in the countdown to the North American World Cup, which will be held June 11-July 19 next year.
FIFA has launched its online phased ticket sales procedures, with more than 4.5 million fans from 216 countries and territories entering the presale draw.
The tournament draw will be held in Washington on December 5. Agencies
FIFA World Cup match balls
from 1930 to 2026:
1930 (Uruguay) - T-model
1934 (Italy) - Federale 102
1938 (France) - Allen
1950 (Brazil) - Superball Duplo T
1954 (Switzerland) - Swiss World Champion
1958 (Sweden) - Top Star
1962 (Chile) - Mr Crack
1966 (England) - Challenge 4-Star
1970 (Mexico) - Telstar
1974 (West Germany) - Telstar Durlast
1978 (Argentina) - Tango Durlast
1982 (Spain) - Tango España
1986 (Mexico) - Azteca
1990 (Italy) - Etrusco Unico
1994 (USA) - Questra
1998 (France) - Tricolore
2002 (Korea/Japan) - Fevernova
2006 (Germany) - Teamgeist
2010 (South Africa) - Jabulani
2014 (Brazil) - Brazuca
2018 (Russia) - Telstar 18
2022 (Qatar) - Al Rihla
2026 (USA/Canada/Mexico) - Trionda
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