October 3 – Adidas has unveiled the official match ball for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, launching it in spectacular fashion on the Las Vegas Sphere last night in Nevada.
The ball, named Trionda, is designed to reflect the shared identity of the three host nations – Canada, Mexico and the United States – while introducing the ‘latest advances’ in match ball technology that Adidas have to offer.
The Trionda, which is translated from Spanish as ‘hree waves’, incorporates three distinct colours, each representing a host country: Mexico’s panel is in green with Aztec-inspired line work; the USA’s features a deep blue and a white star; and Canada’s is coloured red, marked with the iconic maple leaf.
Adidas said the look was intended to balance national identity with the broader theme of unity across North America as FIFA juggles three host nations for the first time in World Cup history.
“The Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup 26 is here and it’s a beauty,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the unveiling. “Adidas have created another iconic World Cup ball, embodying the unity and passion of Canada, Mexico and the United States. I can’t wait to see this beautiful ball hitting the back of the net.”
From a technical standpoint, Trionda introduces a four-panel construction with deliberately deep seams that help stabilise flight by evenly distributing drag. Embossed icons, only visible close-up, are designed to improve grip in wet or humid conditions. The aim is that whilst the ball must look good, its how it plays that people will ultimately remember.
The ball also integrates connected ball technology, using a 500Hz motion sensor chip to provide real-time data on every aspect of its movement. That information is transmitted to the VAR system to assist referees in key decisions, including offside rulings, and generally speed things up.
The Trionda follows a long line of Adidas World Cup balls that have become part of football history.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1759498781labto1759498781ofdlr1759498781owedi1759498781sni@g1759498781niwe.1759498781yrrah1759498781
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