The FIFA World Cup Trophy, the most prestigious symbol of success in soccer, has a fascinating history behind its creation. In this article, we will explore the origins and evolution of the World Cup trophy in five parts.
The first trophy used for the World Cup was named after the FIFA president, Jules Rimet. Created by the French sculptor Abel Lafleur, the trophy featured a gold-plated silver figure of the Greek goddess Nike holding a cup above her head. It stood at 35 centimeters tall and weighed about 3.8 kilograms. The Jules Rimet Trophy was awarded to the winner of the World Cup from 1930 to 1970.
After Brazil won their third World Cup in 1970, FIFA decided to commission a new trophy. The trophy had to be permanently awarded to any nation that achieved three World Cup victories. Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga won the competition to design the new trophy. The final design featured a golden globe held up by two human figures, signifying the triumphant spirit of the game.
The FIFA World Cup Trophy is made of 18-carat gold, stands at 36.5 centimeters tall, and weighs around 6.1 kilograms. The base of the trophy is made of malachite, a semi-precious stone, which adds to its elegance and beauty. It takes craftsmen over three months to create the trophy due to its intricate details and handcrafted elements.
Since the new trophy is permanently awarded to any nation that wins it three times, FIFA had to create a new trophy after Brazil's third victory in 1970. The current structure underwent some changes to accommodate more winners. The base of the trophy now holds a special space to engrave the names of the winning teams, allowing room for expansion as each edition of the World Cup passes.
In conclusion, the World Cup trophy has evolved over time, from the Jules Rimet Trophy to the current design. Its beauty and symbolic nature make it a highly coveted trophy in the world of sports. Teams from around the globe strive to compete for this ultimate prize, representing the pinnacle of soccer excellence.
