The FIFA World Cup is the most prestigious tournament in international soccer, attracting millions of fans from around the globe. One of the most iconic symbols of the tournament is the World Cup trophy, a coveted prize that every soccer player dreams of winning. Let's explore the history of the World Cup trophy and how it has evolved over the years.

Category : Soccer World Cup History en | Sub Category : World Cup Trophy History Posted on 2023-07-07 21:24:53

The FIFA World Cup is the most prestigious tournament in international soccer, attracting millions of fans from around the globe. One of the most iconic symbols of the tournament is the World Cup trophy, a coveted prize that every soccer player dreams of winning. Let's explore the history of the World Cup trophy and how it has evolved over the years.

The original World Cup trophy, known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, was introduced in 1930 by FIFA President Jules Rimet. The trophy was crafted in gold-plated sterling silver and depicted Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, holding a cup above her head. This trophy was awarded to the winners of the World Cup from 1930 to 1970.

One of the most memorable moments in World Cup history involving the Jules Rimet Trophy occurred in 1966 when the trophy was stolen just months before the tournament in England. It was eventually found by a dog named Pickles in a garden, ensuring that the tournament could proceed as planned.

After Brazil won their third World Cup in 1970 and got to keep the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently, FIFA commissioned a new trophy to replace it. The current World Cup trophy, simply known as the FIFA World Cup Trophy, was introduced in 1974 and is awarded to the winners of the tournament ever since.

Designed by Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga, the FIFA World Cup Trophy stands at 36.8 centimeters tall and is made of solid 18-carat gold. The trophy depicts two human figures holding up the Earth and has become an instantly recognizable symbol of soccer excellence.

One interesting fact about the FIFA World Cup Trophy is that the names of the winning countries are engraved on the base of the trophy, which is why there is limited space for future winners' names. As a result, the trophy will eventually be retired and replaced by a new design once all the space is filled.

The World Cup trophy holds a special place in the hearts of soccer fans worldwide and represents the pinnacle of success in international soccer. As teams compete for the chance to lift the trophy every four years, the story of the trophy itself adds an extra layer of intrigue and history to the tournament.