Technology, more specifically AI, will play a big role in the new additions at the upcoming World Cup.
!['Trionda' - translated from Spanish as "three waves" is the official match ball for the World Cup 2026 set to be hosted in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The ball has a sensor chip inside it to track movement. [Daniel Cole/Reuters]](https://aljazeeranews-mggx1uo47w.edgeone.app/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-05-12T171750Z_1958047099_UP1EM5C1C1O5K_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-WORLDCUP-LOS-ANGELES-1780378175.jpg?resize=270%2C180&quality=80)

Technology, more specifically AI, will play a big role in the new additions at the upcoming World Cup.
!['Trionda' - translated from Spanish as "three waves" is the official match ball for the World Cup 2026 set to be hosted in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The ball has a sensor chip inside it to track movement. [Daniel Cole/Reuters]](https://aljazeeranews-mggx1uo47w.edgeone.app/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-05-12T171750Z_1958047099_UP1EM5C1C1O5K_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-WORLDCUP-LOS-ANGELES-1780378175.jpg?resize=270%2C180&quality=80)
Al Jazeera breaks down the key talking points ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 which kicks off next week.

The World Cup is set to be the swansong for some big names, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, but who else?

Al Jazeera speaks to Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui ahead of the World Cup, with a shot at knockouts within their grasp.

A quick look at the 16 venues across 16 cities in three countries, which will host the biggest-ever FIFA World Cup.

Al Jazeera counts down the top young footballers who could emerge as global names at the tournament in North America.

After many continental level appearances, Cape Verde are ready for their opening act on football’s grandest stage.
![Cape Verde beat record African World Cup qualifiers Cameroon to seal their spot in the finals [File: Cristiano Barbosa/AP]](https://aljazeeranews-mggx1uo47w.edgeone.app/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/AP25286764425321-1774510671.jpg?resize=270%2C180&quality=80)
Al Jazeera takes a look at the high-profile players who will play no part in the tournament in North America.

All our updates, including post-match coverage, reaction and interviews following our text commentary stream.

Oft-injured superstar hasn’t played for the national team since 2023, but he’s back in the squad before World Cup 2026.
