Zurich, October 6 — The FIFA World Cup trophy, a symbol of international football since 1930, has undergone two major designs, reflecting the tournament’s evolution and the sport itself. The original trophy, known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, was awarded to Uruguay, the inaugural World Cup winners, in 1930. Designed by French sculptor Abel Lafleur, it featured a winged figure of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, holding an octagonal cup.
The trophy, named after FIFA president Jules Rimet, was stolen in 1966 during a public exhibition in London and recovered seven days later by a dog named Pickles. It was stolen again in 1983 in Rio de Janeiro and never recovered, believed to have been melted down (Source: The FIFA World Cup Trophy).
The Jules Rimet Trophy
First awarded in 1930 to Uruguay, the inaugural World Cup hosts and winners, the Jules Rimet Trophy was named after FIFA president Jules Rimet, who initiated the tournament. Italy won the trophy in 1934 and 1938, and after their third victory in 1938, they were allowed to keep it temporarily. However, the trophy was not permanently awarded until Brazil’s third win in 1970, which earned them permanent possession (Source: The FIFA World Cup Trophy).
Unlike the Jules Rimet Trophy, the current trophy remains the property of FIFA and is not awarded permanently to any nation, regardless of how many times they win. Instead, winners receive a gold-plated bronze replica.
The trophy is kept at FIFA headquarters in Zurich between tournaments and is presented during the final match ceremony. The World Cup itself has grown from 13 teams in 1930 to 32 teams since 1998, expanding to 48 teams for the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico (Source: The FIFA World Cup Trophy).
The Trophy’s Cultural Significance
The FIFA World Cup trophy has become one of the most recognizable sports symbols in the world, representing not only athletic excellence but also international cooperation and cultural exchange through football. The trophy, with its depiction of two human figures holding up the Earth, symbolizes the global unity of football, a testament to the sport’s ability to bring people together despite political and cultural differences (Source: The FIFA World Cup Trophy).
Looking Ahead
As the world prepares for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the FIFA World Cup trophy stands as a symbol of international unity and athletic excellence. With 48 teams competing, the tournament promises to be the most inclusive and diverse World Cup yet, showcasing the global reach and impact of football (Source: The FIFA World Cup Trophy).
