Football balls adidas, from Telstar to Trionda

adidas and the World Cup, a story of balls since 1970

The partnership began in 1970 in Mexico with the Telstar, whose black and white panels were designed to stand out on televisions, and which was also used in 1974. In 1978, the Tango from the World Cup in Argentina marked its era so well that its design inspired the balls of the next five editions.

Since then, each tournament has its adidas ball, and the brand has also supplied the Champions League since 2001 with the Finale range. The Trionda, unveiled in October 2025, continues this story for the first World Cup held by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Compare with other ball brands

For comparison, Puma balls cater to both leisure and match play, Erima balls are designed for intensive club use, and Uhlsport balls carry the signature of the German brand from Balingen. The full range of balls, along with a size guide based on age, can be found on the page football balls.

Trionda Club: the 2026 World Cup ball for everyone

The Trionda features a four-panel construction, with graphic details celebrating the three host countries and a slightly textured surface for grip. The match version includes a chip connected to video refereeing, reserved for balls used in official matches.

The Club version retains the design of the official ball but uses a machine-stitched TPU cover and a butyl bladder. The result: a sturdy ball that maintains pressure over time and withstands repeated sessions on both synthetic surfaces and grass. The model in Italy's colours is aimed at fans who want to play with the World Cup ball and their favourite team's colours.

Club version, intermediate or Pro: which adidas ball for which use

Each high competition adidas ball comes in several levels. The Pro version, for official matches, is thermally bonded and certified FIFA Quality Pro: stable trajectory, low water absorption, precise touch, but a more fragile cover on hard surfaces.

Intermediate versions, such as the League or Competition variants, are suitable for amateur club matches. The Club version is aimed at training, leisure, and young players: more durable and more affordable, it can take hits against a wall or on a hard pitch without issue. For a child, also check the size: 3, 4 or 5 depending on their category.

The adidas ball to give at the right moment

The ball from a World Cup remains a gift that lights up the eyes. Equipment promotions for Black Friday come just before the end-of-year holidays, followed by the winter sales. In spring, the French Days for equipment coincide with the return of outdoor matches, before the summer sales and the resumption of training. Balls from past tournaments go into clearance, and each ball is prepared and shipped within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the name Trionda come from?

The name combines the idea of the three host countries, the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the word onda, which means wave in Spanish. It evokes the shared momentum of the three organising nations.

Why has the 1978 Tango remained so famous?

The triads drawn on the panels created the illusion of circles when the ball spun. This graphic made such an impact that it served as the basis for the balls of the next five World Cups.

Is the Champions League ball an adidas ball?

Yes, adidas has supplied the Champions League ball since 2001 with the Finale range, identifiable by its stars inspired by the competition's logo. Each final receives a unique design reflecting the host city.

What size of adidas ball for a child?

For children up to 9 years old, a size 3 ball; from 10 to 13 years, a size 4, used in eight a side football; then, the adult size 5. A ball that is too large tires young players and hinders technical learning.

Is the Trionda Club certified for official matches?

The Club version is designed for training and leisure. For an official match, the competition rules specify the required ball: check for the FIFA marking printed on the cover before using it in a league.