LaLiga brings connected ball technology to every match in the 2026-2027 season
LaLiga is set to introduce connected ball technology across every match of the 2026-2027 season, marking a major step in the use of digital tools to support refereeing, VAR decisions and football broadcasting.
The technology was developed through a collaboration between LaLiga, Spain’s refereeing body CTA, sportswear company PUMA and technology firm KINEXON. It will be integrated into the PUMA STELLAR NITRO Ultimate, the official match ball for the new season.
A small radio-frequency sensor installed inside the ball will transmit real-time information about its position and the precise moment when a player makes contact with it. According to KINEXON, the sensor weighs around 15 grams and combines an accelerometer with a gyroscope.
The system can transmit hundreds of signals per second to antennas installed around each stadium, while the ball’s position is tracked through frequent updates. Despite the additional technology, the ball is designed to behave like a conventional match ball, with tests indicating no noticeable difference in weight, balance, feel or flight.
One of the main objectives of the system is to provide referees and VAR officials with more accurate information during disputed situations. The data could be particularly useful for semi-automated offside decisions, handball incidents, deflections, corner-kick decisions and situations involving a possible double touch during penalties.
By identifying the exact moment of contact between a player and the ball, the system could help VAR teams make decisions without relying solely on television footage and individual video frames.
The technology is also expected to enhance the viewing experience. LaLiga plans to use the additional data to provide information such as shot speed, ball spin and trajectory during broadcasts. The league is also developing a new data layer known as xBALL, which could support future match-analysis and broadcasting applications.
The introduction of the connected ball will require specific procedures at stadiums. Each match will involve 14 connected balls, including the ball in play, one held by the fourth official and additional balls positioned around the pitch. The equipment must be charged, identified and tested before every game.
The connected balls will be used exclusively during official matches and will not be deployed during training or warm-up sessions.
LaLiga will operate the technology alongside VAR and semi-automated offside systems throughout the 2026-2027 campaign. If the rollout proves successful in the top division, the league plans to extend connected ball technology to LaLiga Hypermotion from the 2027-2028 season.
The move reflects the growing role of advanced tracking and sensor technology in professional football. By combining real-time data with existing video systems, LaLiga aims to improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions while opening new possibilities for broadcasters, analysts and fans.
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