FIFA and Adidas unveiled the official ball of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in November 2025. It builds on the connected-ball tech that debuted at Qatar 2022 (Al Rihla).
Key facts
- Manufacturer: Adidas (their 14th consecutive WC ball)
- Design: Tri-color motif honoring USA, Canada, Mexico
- Technology: Connected Ball with 500Hz IMU sensor, contributing to AI-assisted VAR
- Material: Polyurethane outer + textured surface for grip
- Weight: 410-450g (FIFA standard)
- Circumference: 68-70cm (FIFA standard)
Connected ball technology
The ball contains a 500Hz Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor at its center, sending data to VAR officials in real-time. This means:
- Precise offside detection at the moment of contact
- Faster handball decisions
- Better understanding of foul moments in tight challenges
- Real-time data for broadcast graphics
Design symbolism
The ball features three intersecting visual zones representing the three host countries: red zones for USA + Canada, green for Mexico, white connecting them. Subtle iconography includes:
- Stars and stripes motif (USA)
- Maple leaf pattern (Canada)
- Aztec geometric design (Mexico)
History of FIFA World Cup balls
| Year | Name | Notable |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | TBD | Connected ball + AI-VAR |
| 2022 Qatar | Al Rihla | First connected ball ever |
| 2018 Russia | Telstar 18 | Tribute to 1970 Telstar |
| 2014 Brazil | Brazuca | Public vote for name |
| 2010 South Africa | Jabulani | Controversial — claims of unpredictable flight |
| 2006 Germany | Teamgeist | 14 panels instead of traditional 32 |
| 1994 USA | Questra | First polyurethane ball |
| 1970 Mexico | Telstar | The classic black-and-white 32-panel design |
Adidas's 14 consecutive WC balls
Adidas has supplied every official WC ball since 1970 — 14 consecutive tournaments. This is the longest manufacturer relationship in WC history.
How to buy the ball
Official 2026 WC ball replicas are sold at:
- adidas.com — official retailer
- FIFA Store at host venues + airports
- Soccer.com, Dick's Sporting Goods, etc. — authorized retailers
- Price: ~$165 retail, $40 for youth-size replica
Learn the host states by playing
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Play today's puzzle →Frequently asked questions
Who makes the 2026 World Cup ball?
Adidas — their 14th consecutive WC official ball, going back to 1970.
Does the 2026 ball have technology in it?
Yes. It contains a 500Hz Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor that sends data to FIFA's AI-assisted VAR system in real-time, enabling precise offside and foul detection.
How much does the official ball cost?
~$165 for an official replica adult ball, $40 for youth-size. Available at adidas.com and major US sports retailers.
When was the 2026 ball unveiled?
November 2025 — about 7 months before the tournament. Adidas typically announces a major launch event.