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
Statedoku uses "Hosts the WC 2026" as a constraint in its daily puzzle.
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.