Inside the FIFA World Cup Trophy: Design, Symbolism and Storied History
Silvio Gazzaniga won FIFA’s open competition in 1971 to create a new trophy after Brazil kept the Jules Rimet cup in 1970. He captured three sporting emotions — an athlete’s struggle, a fan’s jubilation and the moment of victory — in a spiraling sculpture that reaches toward a golden globe. The original Jules Rimet Trophy, introduced in 1930, depicted the Greek goddess Nike and was stolen twice before vanishing for good in 1983. Gazzaniga’s full-scale model impressed the jury with its concept and craftsmanship, leading to its debut at the 1974 final in Munich. Today’s World Cup Trophy stands 36 cm tall, is cast in 18-carat gold and rests on a malachite base. It remains in FIFA’s Swiss headquarters between tournaments, while champions receive a gold-plated replica. FIFA has confirmed the design will stay in use through at least 2038. Despite recent controversies in CAF and FIFA, football’s magic endures. Who do you think will lift the trophy in 2026? I’m backing Argentina, but Spain could surprise us all.
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.