Multiple reports say FIFA is using a different match ball for the World Cup semi-finals and the final than the one used in earlier rounds. The BBC notes that the change happens after the tournament has already played through roughly 100 matches, implying FIFA is not altering the ball for the first time in the competition. The Mirror similarly explains that the early-round ball is replaced specifically for the final stages, indicating the switch is intended for knockout matches rather than group or earlier phases.
The Independent also discusses FIFA’s decision to introduce a new ball for the last two matches of the tournament, framed as a tournament regulations or equipment change rather than a controversy tied to a specific incident. Across the coverage, the common theme is that FIFA replaces the match ball at a defined stage—semi-finals onward—consistent with tournament administration and technical requirements. While outlets focus on the “why” behind the switch, they agree on the core point: the ball used earlier in the World Cup is no longer used once the semi-finals begin, and a new model is introduced for the remaining games.
