FIFA World Cup: Things to Know about the Trophy

As anticipation builds across continents and football fever intensifies, the world counts down to the most expansive edition of the global game’s biggest stage—the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking a historic first for the three nations.

With 48 teams, 64 matches, and 16 host cities, many already describe the tournament as the largest and most ambitious in FIFA history. The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where one nation will lift football’s most coveted prize, the FIFA World Cup Trophy.

Beyond the goals and global rivalry lies the true symbol of victory: the trophy itself. It shines with elegance and carries a legacy that stretches far beyond modern football. Every fan should understand the deeper truths behind this ultimate prize.

A WEIGHT THAT REPRESENTS HISTORY

At first glance, the trophy looks light enough to lift with ease. In reality, it carries significant weight. FIFA states that the trophy weighs 6.142 kilograms, with 5.092 kilograms made of 18-carat gold.

Every winning captain lifts not just a trophy, but over six kilograms of gold and history. The base uses malachite, which adds stability and gives the trophy its green-and-gold design.

The current trophy design may look timeless, but FIFA introduced it in 1974. That year marked the World Cup hosted by West Germany, following the retirement of the original trophy.

Before this, the world celebrated the Jules Rimet Trophy, named after the FIFA president who created the World Cup. Brazil won that trophy permanently in 1970 after securing their third title.

Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga designed the current trophy. His design shows two human figures lifting the Earth. FIFA selected it from 53 submissions, and its symbolism still stands strong today.

THE ORIGINAL NEVER LEAVES SWITZERLAND

Many fans assume the winning team takes home the original trophy. That is not true.

FIFA keeps the official World Cup Trophy at the FIFA Museum in Zurich, Switzerland, under strict security. Winning nations receive a replica instead of the original.

This system protects the original trophy and preserves its global value for future generations.

FIFA ensures that every champion still receives a reward. Each winning nation receives an official replica of the trophy.

The replica stays in the country permanently. It serves as a lasting symbol of victory and national pride.

Players experience the historic moment of lifting the trophy, but their country keeps the physical prize.

HISTORY WRITTEN IN GOLD

The FIFA World Cup Trophy serves as a record of football history. After every tournament, FIFA engraves a new base disk with the name of the winning nation.

Each engraving adds to a growing list of champions. These names represent moments of pride, unforgettable matches, and football excellence.

The trophy stands at 36.8 centimeters tall. Its design features two figures lifting the Earth.

This design represents unity, triumph, and global connection through football. It goes beyond sport and reflects shared passion across nations.

Its smooth gold finish and green base combine beauty with deep meaning.

FIFA tightly controls access to the trophy. Only select individuals, such as heads of state, FIFA officials, and tournament winners, can handle it under strict conditions.

Security teams monitor its movement at all times. FIFA ensures its safety with advanced protection measures.

Esther OSOSANYA

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Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.