With only six days remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, attention is not only focused on the teams competing for football’s biggest prize but also on the iconic trophy that carries a value running into millions of dollars.
The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will kick off on June 11 and will be the largest World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams and a total of 104 matches.
While the identity of the eventual champion will be decided on the final day of the competition, the FIFA World Cup Trophy itself remains one of the most valuable and recognizable prizes in global sports.
Standing 37 centimeters tall and weighing nearly six kilograms, the trophy is made from 18-carat gold. Based on current global gold prices, experts estimate its material value at around $250,000, equivalent to roughly Rs70 million.
The trophy’s design features two human figures holding up the Earth and was created in 1970 by renowned Italian sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga. Its base also includes two layers of malachite, a distinctive green mineral stone that adds to its unique appearance.
Sports memorabilia experts say that if the trophy were ever offered at auction, its historical significance, rarity and craftsmanship could push its value beyond $20 million.
Despite its immense worth, the original trophy is never permanently awarded to the winning nation.
Under FIFA regulations, the world champions receive a gold-plated bronze replica, while the original trophy remains in FIFA’s possession and is kept under strict security.
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, the famous golden trophy remains the ultimate symbol of football excellence and the dream prize for every team competing on the world stage.