The original FIFA World Cup Trophy arrived in India on Friday after 12 years as part of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event included a FIFA Charter Landing and an official unveiling at the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi.
The ceremony was attended by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and former Brazilian World Cup winner Gilberto D’Silva.
Speaking at the event, Dr Mandaviya said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sports has emerged as a national priority. The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour resonates with our aspiration to place India among the world’s top five sporting nations by 2047.”
The trophy, made of 18-carat solid gold and weighing 6.175 kilograms, has been the official design since 1974. Only former World Cup winners, heads of state, and the FIFA President are allowed to touch the original trophy.
The visit offers Indian football fans a chance to see the trophy in person amid ongoing challenges for Indian football, including the national team’s 142nd place in FIFA rankings and a suspended domestic league.
“On the occasion of the FIFA World Cup -2026, the World Cup trophy was unveiled in India today. This trophy will remain in the country for three days, which will boost the morale and enthusiasm of young players,” Mandaviya said.
