In a global sporting event reflecting the growing stature of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the international sports map, the FIFA 2026™ World Cup Trophy Tour kicked off today in Riyadh, the capital, sponsored by Coca-Cola and in close collaboration with FIFA. This event marks a significant milestone in the countdown to the biggest football event in history.
The most coveted trophy in the world of football received a hero's welcome upon its arrival on a private plane at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Among those greeting it were Saudi football legends Majed Abdullah and Fouad Anwar, who represent a rich history of Saudi football on the international stage. In a majestic ceremony, Alessandro Del Piero, the Italian legend who won the 2006 World Cup and a representative of FIFA, unveiled the trophy, officially launching its marathon journey around the world.
A global journey paving the way for the biggest event
The tour is scheduled to last 150 days, during which the trophy will travel thousands of miles, visiting 30 countries and making 75 different stops around the world. This traditional tour aims to give sports fans worldwide the opportunity to see the trophy up close, further fueling the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming tournament.
2026 World Cup: An exceptional edition
This year's trophy tour holds special significance as it precedes the most expanded and innovative edition in the history of the FIFA World Cup. The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will feature 48 teams for the first time ever, up from 32. This expansion will provide greater opportunities for teams from all continents to participate in the global football extravaganza, making this trophy tour an open invitation to the world to celebrate diversity and unity through football.
Riyadh... the capital of world sports
The choice of Riyadh as the starting point for this tour is not arbitrary; rather, it embodies the significant transformation underway in Saudi Arabia's sports sector as part of Vision 2030. The Kingdom has become a preferred destination for major international sporting events, from Formula 1 races and world-class boxing matches to hosting the Super Cup for several major European leagues. This event also strengthens the Kingdom's ambitious bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, highlighting its readiness, advanced infrastructure, and the immense passion of its football-loving public.
