The iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy is making its way to Canada, ahead of the highly anticipated summer soccer tournament.
Starting April 9, the prestigious trophy will embark on a journey across various Canadian cities including Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Montreal, Halifax, Ottawa, and Toronto until May 26. This year, the 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the U.S., is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19.
The global FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour commenced on January 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where former Italian football star Alessandro Del Piero proudly presented the trophy to fans.
Originally introduced in 1974, the current World Cup Trophy replaced the historic Jules Rimet Trophy which was awarded to Brazil for eternity after their third victory in 1970. Following a design competition, Italian sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga’s creation was chosen among 53 submissions, and the current trophy was unveiled in 1974.
Crafted from 18-karat gold, standing 14.5 inches tall and weighing 13.6 pounds, the trophy’s base features two green malachite bands that have undergone multiple restorations. Since 2006, the cup is only temporarily given to the winning team during the official ceremony, with the country receiving a replica to keep.
Engraved on the trophy’s base are the names of the countries that have triumphed in the World Cup since 1974, adding to its legacy and historical significance.
The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, presented by Coca-Cola, provides an exclusive opportunity for fans to catch a glimpse of this prestigious trophy. Free tickets are available in limited quantities, and fans can register for them on Thursday starting at 10 a.m. ET on www.coca-cola.com/ca/en.