With under three months remaining before the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, excitement is already spreading worldwide.
The competition, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will be the biggest edition ever, introducing an expanded 48-team format for the first time.
A total of 64 matches will take place across 16 host cities, with the final planned for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
As top footballers across the globe gear up to compete for the sport’s ultimate honor, FIFA on Saturday revealed several interesting details about the famous trophy—facts that might surprise many supporters.
1. It weighs more than you think
The trophy is heavier than it appears. According to FIFA, “the trophy weighs 6.142 kilograms, of which 5.092 kilograms are pure gold.”
Although it looks compact, any player lifting it is actually raising over six kilograms of football history above their head.
2. It is not that old
The current design is more recent than many believe. FIFA says “the trophy was first used in 1974,” when West Germany hosted the tournament.
The earlier Jules Rimet Trophy was retired after Brazil claimed it permanently by winning it for the third time in 1970.
3. The original stays in Zurich
The winning country does not take home the authentic trophy. FIFA states that “the official FIFA World Cup Trophy is housed at the FIFA Museum in Zurich.”
4. Every winner gets their own copy
Rather than circulating a single trophy, FIFA ensures each champion keeps a lasting memento.
The governing body confirms that “each FIFA World Cup winner receives their own individual winner’s trophy.” The original, however, remains in Switzerland.
5. A new disk is added after every tournament
The base of the trophy is modified after every tournament. FIFA notes that “a new bottom disk is produced after each tournament, stating the newest winner.”
FIFA explains that this is football’s way of permanently recording history on the game’s most prized trophy.