The World Cup trophy began an extensive international tour this Thursday in Dubai during which it will be presented to the public in 50 countries, including the 32 qualified for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The kick-off of this vast communication operation, supported by Coca-Cola (official sponsor of the competition since 1978), was given in Dubai.
Iker Casillas and Kaka were present for the occasion.
“I had the peak of my career in 2010, when I lifted the trophy with Spain, recalled the former doorman of La Roja. It’s nice to think that, in a few months, in Qatar, someone is going to experience the same emotions.” Iker Casillas said.
Kaka was very young when he climbed to the top of the planet with Brazil in 2002. Playing only 18 minutes in the last group match against Costa Rica (5-2).
“I was 20 when I played my first World Cup finals and I remember it like it was yesterday. I had just fulfilled my dream,” said the Ballon D’Or of 2007.
The original World Cup trophy is solid gold. It dates from 1974 and weighs 6.142 kg. The statuette represents two figures holding a globe above their heads. This trophy is initially given to the winners of the competition but it belongs to Fifa, which recovers it after a certain time.
The winning team is then awarded the trophy of the edition concerned (with the year, the name of the host country and that of the winner inscribed on it) which it can keep permanently.
Source: AfrikPage