ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Pakistan was proud to contribute to the FIFA World Cup through the manufacture of the tournament’s official match ball, ahead of the start of football’s biggest event in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The 23rd FIFA World Cup is set to begin later on Thursday, bringing together teams and fans from around the globe for a month-long tournament co-hosted by the three North American nations.
Pakistan, which has never qualified for the World Cup, nevertheless maintains a longstanding connection to the sport through its sports goods industry, with the official “Trionda” match ball for the 2026 tournament manufactured in the eastern city of Sialkot.
“Pakistan is proud to be part of this global celebration through its renowned sporting goods industry,” Sharif said in a post on X. “The official match balls, ‘Trionda’, being used at this World Cup have been manufactured in Pakistan, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of our people.”
Manufactured by Forward Sports in Sialkot, the Trionda ball features a four-panel design and incorporates connected-ball technology that helps match officials make decisions during games.
Describing the World Cup as a special occasion for football fans around the world, Sharif said the tournament highlighted sport’s ability to unite people across borders, cultures and nationalities.
“This global event is a celebration of sport’s unique ability to bring people together across borders, cultures, and nationalities,” the prime minister said. “I extend my best wishes to the host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico, as well as all participating nations, for a successful and memorable tournament.”
“May this tournament inspire friendship, unity, and sporting excellence across the world,” he added.
