Adidas Clams New World Cup Ball Will Speed Up Accurate Refereeing Calls
Adidas has unveiled the official match ball for next summer’s World Cup, introducing the Trionda-a ball packed with cutting-edge technology designed to revolutionize how the game is officiated. The name “Trionda,” meaning “three waves,” reflects the collaboration of the three host countries: the USA, Mexico, and Canada, represented by the ball’s striking red, green, and blue colors.
England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham played a part in launching the ball, highlighting its role in enhancing on-field decisions. What sets the Trionda apart isn't just its eye-catching design but its advanced “connected ball technology” embedded within. Unlike previous models that housed chips at the core, this ball features an inertial measurement unit chip nestled inside a unique specially engineered layer. This innovation enables the ball to send real-time data to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
By integrating this data with player positioning, referees can expect faster offside rulings and better identification of handball offences, a breakthrough for improving fairness and accuracy in the game. Adidas football innovation lead Hannes Schaefke explained that tracking key performance metrics such as passes, sprints, and touches during a dribble had long been difficult due to optical limitations. This sensor technology now unlocks new depths of game understanding and could shape football's future profoundly.
From a design perspective, the Trionda is crafted from four panels that converge to form a triangle, symbolizing the unity of the three host nations. Each panel features embossed icons-stars for the United States, maple leaves for Canada, and eagles for Mexico-blending aesthetics with cultural significance. Deeper seams and textured icons ensure superior in-flight stability and improved grip, enhancing player control under various conditions.
Set to feature in a historic 48-team tournament kicking off on June 11, with the final slated for July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the Trionda is already available for enthusiasts, retailing at €160 (£139.50). This ball isn’t just a game changer for players and fans but a leap forward in football technology and officiating.