FIFA changes the ball for the last four matches of the Qatar 2022 World Cup

There will be a new protagonist in the World Cup in Qatar 2022. Yes, FIFA changes the ball for the last four matches of the competition. It is called Al Hilm, which in Arabic means “The Dream”, and takes the place of Al Rihla (in Arabic, the journey) which was the ball used in the first 60 duels of the tournament.

“The ball features the latest advances in ball design and the same Adidas-related technology that Al Rihla contained and which during this World Cup has greatly helped referees make decisions more quickly and correctly,” explains the press release released by the FIFA this Sunday.

Is that along with player location data, the technology instantly delivers VAR information to streamline decision-making and help fans enjoy the game with fewer interruptions.

“The new technology combines artificial intelligence with data provided by the inertial measurement unit (IMU) located in the center of the ball. Being linked to the semi-automatic offside detection system, it allows you to check the exact moment the ball it is played in very close situations of illegal position,” FIFA points out.

In this regard, Johannes Holzmüller, director of FIFA’s Football Technological Innovation Branch, said: “With the development of technology related to the ball, adidas has allowed the video refereeing team to have a very important new level of information. The data provided from the ball opens the door to a new way of understanding and narrating the exceptional plays of this World Cup”.

As in the case of Al Rihla, the design of the new ball is studied down to the millimeter to respect the environment. “All of its components have been thoroughly analyzed, to the point that Al Hilm is the first World Cup semi-final and final ball made exclusively with water-based inks and glues,” they explain.

The design, meanwhile, is also super attractive. A gold background and subtle triangular motifs are inspired by the deserts surrounding the city of Doha, the World Cup and the print of the Qatar flag.

“The glow of Al Hilm will illuminate the power of sport in general and football in particular to unite the world. Millions of people will tune in to the competition from almost every country on the planet, united by their passion for football. We wish the best of good luck to all the teams making it to the final stages of the competition as they compete on football’s biggest stage,” said Nick Craggs, managing director of adidas Soccer Division.

Doha, Qatar. Special envoys.