The ball that will be used for the FIFA World Cup 2022 semifinals and championship has been introduced by Adidas.
Al Hilm will replace Al Rihla, which was the match ball used up until the quarterfinal rounds of the competition. Al Rihla’s groundbreaking adidas “Connected Ball” technology, which has assisted match officials in making quicker and more accurate decisions during the matches, will be included into the new ball.
The first World Cup match ball to use water-based inks and glues, Al Hilm, which translates to “The Dream” in Arabic, was created with the environment in mind.
According to FIFA’s official website, Johannes Holzmüller, Director of Football Technology & Innovation, said: “With the development of the connected ball technology, adidas made it possible that an additional important layer of information is available to the video match officials. The data from the ball unlocks new insights for storytelling around the unique moments on the pitch at this World Cup.”
Introducing the @adidas Al Hilm — the official match ball for the #FIFAWorldCup semi-finals and final.
Johannes Holzmüller, Director of Football Technology and Innovation at FIFA, explains more about the technological advances in the tournament ball designs:
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) December 11, 2022
According to Nick Craggs, General Manager of Football at adidas, Al Hilm is a shining example of the ability of sport and football to unite people from all over the world.
“Al Hilm represents a beacon of light on the power of sport and football to bring the world together. Millions will tune in from almost every country around the globe, united by their passion for the game. We wish all teams involved in the final stages of the tournament the best of luck as they compete on the largest stage that football has to offer,” said Nick Craggs, general manager, Football, adidas.
Argentina, France, Croatia, and Morocco, the teams that will play in the semifinals, have begun utilizing Al Hilm in their practice sessions.
