The 2026 FIFA World Cup will see the full implementation of advanced Connected Ball Technology, integrated into the official tournament ball, Trionda, as reported by YNews.
Encased within the ball is a compact sensor, weighing just 14 grams, which gathers real-time data on its movement. This system captures information 500 times per second, meticulously tracking its speed, trajectory, spin, and the precise instant it’s touched by a player. This collected information is then cross-referenced with data from 12 high-speed cameras positioned around the pitch. Subsequently, artificial intelligence constructs a three-dimensional representation of the action, providing invaluable assistance to referees.
The primary objective of this technology is to enhance the accuracy of offside calls. The sensor precisely records the split-second a pass is made, while the camera system determines the positions of the players. This is intended to minimize contentious decisions and expedite the work of match officials, including reviews for potential handball incidents and confirming goals scored on the line.
Notably, the Trionda’s design features improvements over the Al Rihla ball used at the 2022 World Cup. The sensor is now embedded within a dedicated compartment in one of the panels, and engineers have incorporated a counterweight system to maintain perfect balance. Before matches, the balls require charging; the internal battery provides approximately six hours of continuous operation. Should a ball need to be replaced during a game, the system seamlessly transitions to the new ball without any data loss.
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