FIFA has confirmed a new match ball will be used for the final stages of the World Cup, replacing the existing model that has been used throughout the tournament so far.
Al Hilm, which succeeds Al Rihl, will be used in the semi-finals, third-place play-off and final of Qatar 2022, presented by Adidas for the last four matches.
The existing ball, which has been equipped with technology to assist referees in tracking and making decisions throughout the tournament, has so far been used in the group stages and early knockout rounds.
But Al Hilm, which will come with a golden base design and a triangular pattern paying homage to the deserts surrounding the main host city of Doha, will now take its place.
“Al Hilm represents a beacon of light about the power of sport and football to bring the world together,” Adidas general manager Nick Craggs said in a statement.
“Millions of people will tune in from almost every country around the world, united by their passion for the game. We wish all the teams involved the best of luck in the final stages of the tournament.”
The semi-finals are scheduled for Qatar 2022, with 2018 winners France and runners-up Croatia potentially in line for a rematch of the last four years.
The pair will face Morocco, the first African nation to reach the last four in the tournament’s history, and former champions Argentina.
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