The World Cup trophy is displayed during its arrival back in the country, in Doha, yesterday. (AFP)
The World Cup trophy is finally back in Qatar, a week before the kick-off of the biggest sporting event.
The one and only, solid gold original FIFA World Cup trophy has been on a global tour. It has visited 51 countries. The Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola started in Dubai in May this year, and its last stop was at Ithra, Saudi Arabia, before arriving in Doha.
General Manager of the 2022 World Cup at Coca-Cola, Nazli Berberoglu said the arrival of the trophy is a “very proud moment for all of us.”
“The trophy has travelled all over the world, 51 countries and now it has reached the host country, final destination, and now we are here in the beautiful Qatar.” She spoke at an event at Al Wadi Hotel in Msheireb Downtown Doha held yesterday.
“Our aim together with the FIFA partners is to inspire millions all over the world with this beautiful trophy tour,” Berberoglu said, terming the journey of the trophy tour “magical”.
Football legend Marcel Desailly revealed the trophy yesterday where he expressed his excitement as the World Cup draw near. “It’s the moment, it’s here, we’ve been talking, we’ve been planning, we’ve been organising, now it’s the time for the trophy to come up and the show must start.”
The former French professional footballer is considered among the greatest centre-back and defensive midfielders of all time. He played an important role in Les Bleus triumph at the 1998 World Cup. He also looked back at the key moments of their win 24 years ago.
“It has been a dream come true, when I was young I was seeing all the stars like [Diego] Maradona. Holding the trophy — it’s been my dream, and we hope this trophy will inspire a lot of kids who are watching.”
The legend is also thrilled that the World Cup is happening in Qatar. “We are very happy to have the competition in this region. It was a need, and it’s here now, and will inspire a lot of kids, people.”
Berberoglu also highlighted how seeing the trophy in-person can inspire the younger generation to pursue football. “When they see the trophy, when they see legend like you (referring to Desailly), they think that one day I may be on the world stage of football as well, so it’s very important.”
From now until the final match, the trophy will be under the supervision of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy and FIFA. It will then be handed over to the winning team come December 18.
The trophy is made of pure gold and weighs over six kg. It has the engraving FIFA World Cup on its base, and depicts two people holding up the Earth. Its current design dates back to 1974.
