The ball will be used for the semi-finals and final of the FIFA World Cup
Published: 11 Dec 2022 - 12:53 pm | Last Updated: 12 Dec 2022 - 09:11 am
- Al Hilm translates as 'The Dream' in Arabic and features a unique graphic design
- It will be the official ball for the semi-finals and final, replacing Al Rihla
- Al Hilm features ‘Connected Ball’ technology to aid semi-automated offside decisions
Named Al Hilm, which translates as 'The Dream' in Arabic, follows on from the official match ball used in the tournament so far, Al Rihla, or 'The Journey'.
Utilizing the latest technological advances in ball design, Al Hilm includes the same unprecedented adidas ‘Connected Ball’ technology as Al Rihla, which has proven invaluable in helping match officials making faster and more accurate decisions during this World Cup.
Combined with player position data, the innovation offers video match officials instant data, to help optimize decision making for a seamless fan experience.
By combining the ball data captured by IMU sensors within the ball and applying artificial intelligence, the new technology supports the semi-automated offside system, especially by providing the exact moment the ball is played in tight offside situations.
Johannes Holzmüller, director of football technology & innovation at FIFA, 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.”
The ball was also designed with the environment at its heart - all components have been carefully considered, and Al Hilm is the first FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final ball made using only water-based inks and glues.
The design is set on a textured gold base colour which features a subtle triangular pattern, drawing inspiration from the sparkling deserts of the region that surround the city of Doha, the colour of the FIFA World Cup trophy, and the pattern of the Qatar flag.
“Al Hilm represents a beacon of light on the power of sport and football to bring the world together," said Nick Craggs, general manager - football, adidas.
"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."
AL HILM PRO FOOTBALL
THE SEAMLESS MATCH BALL THAT STARS IN THE FINAL IN QATAR.
Inspired by the colours and intricate architecture of the host country. This eye-catching adidas Al Hilm ball is the official match ball used in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final. Shimmering in the golden colours shared by the final venue and the famous trophy, this ball combines Speedshell panel technology, surface texturing and diamond debossing made for football’s biggest stage
HIGHLIGHTS
PRODUCT DETAILS
- 70% polyurethane, 20% recycled polyester, 10% viscose cover
- Butyl bladder
- Thermally bonded seamless construction
- FIFA Quality Pro certified leather (imitation)
SPEEDSHELL PANELS
- Performance-driven speed lines influenced by the futuristic stadiums.
ELEGANCE IN MOTION
- Ideal flight stability created by shapes and grooves of the ball.
PREMIUM FINISH
- Shimmering in the golden colours shared by the final venue and the famous trophy.
Al Hilm translates as “The Dream” in Arabic and features a unique graphic design, setting it apart from the Al Rihla used throughout the tournament so far.
Al Hilm will be the official ball for the semi-finals and final.
Just like Al Rihla, Al Hilm will feature the ‘Connected Ball’ technology, which has proved a huge success in making semi-automated offside decisions faster and more accurate.
