The moment the FIFA World Cup Trophy enters the stadium, the atmosphere changes. Fans roar, cameras flash, and the world’s biggest football dream suddenly feels within reach. But behind that iconic golden prize lies a world of traditions, emotions, and carefully followed rituals that many supporters never get to see. From the legends trusted to bring it onto the pitch to the strict rules around who can touch it, every detail adds to its mystery. So, what makes this trophy more than just a piece of gold? Let’s uncover the stories behind football’s most treasured symbol.

Who is chosen to carry the FIFA World Cup trophy before the final?

Carrying the FIFA World Cup trophy onto the pitch before the final is one of football’s greatest honors, and it’s not a role just anyone gets. FIFA typically entrusts the iconic trophy to a World Cup-winning legend, former captain, or a globally respected football figure whose legacy has shaped the game. 

The moment has become a cherished pre-match tradition, symbolizing the connection between past champions and the next generation. For the 2026 World Cup final, the trophy will make its grand entrance inside a bespoke Louis Vuitton trunk before being unveiled on the field, adding another touch of prestige to football’s biggest night.

How does FIFA select the person who brings out the World Cup Trophy?

There isn’t a formal application or public voting process to decide who carries the FIFA World Cup trophy before the final. Instead, FIFA carefully selects a person whose achievements and contributions to football reflect the prestige of the occasion.

The honor usually goes to a World Cup-winning captain, legendary former player, or respected FIFA ambassador who embodies the spirit and history of the tournament. 

FIFA also considers the ceremonial significance of the event, ensuring the individual represents football’s global legacy. Combined with the trophy’s arrival in a bespoke Louis Vuitton trunk, the pre-match presentation has become one of the World Cup final’s most iconic traditions.

What happens during the FIFA World Cup Trophy ceremony before kickoff?

Moments before kickoff, the FIFA World Cup trophy ceremony transforms the stadium into the center of the football world. The iconic trophy is brought onto the pitch by a specially chosen football legend or FIFA ambassador, often arriving in a bespoke Louis Vuitton trunk for the 2026 final. 

It is then unveiled before players, match officials, and thousands of fans, while millions watch around the globe. The ceremony celebrates the tournament’s history, honors past champions, and builds anticipation before the national anthems and team lineups, setting the stage for football’s biggest and most prestigious match.

Which famous players and legends have carried the FIFA World Cup Trophy?

Several football legends have had the honor of carrying the FIFA World Cup Trophy onto the pitch before the World Cup final. Over the years, FIFA has selected iconic figures such as Pelé, Diego Maradona, Carles Puyol, Fabio Cannavaro, Iker Casillas, Lothar Matthäus, Philipp Lahm, and Kaká to take part in the pre-match ceremony. The organization has also invited other World Cup winners, former captains, and FIFA ambassadors to perform the role.

Who presents the FIFA World Cup Trophy to the winning team after the final?

Once the final whistle blows, the FIFA World Cup trophy is presented by the FIFA President, often joined by the head of state or senior dignitaries from the host nation. Before the presentation, the winning team receives its gold medals on a specially constructed podium. 

The FIFA President then hands the iconic trophy to the winning captain, who becomes the first player to lift it in celebration. That unforgettable moment, followed by teammates joining the celebration, marks the official crowning of the new world champions and is regarded as one of the most iconic scenes in global sport.

What are the rules for handling the FIFA World Cup Trophy?

The FIFA World Cup trophy is one of the most protected prizes in sport, and strict rules govern who can handle it. According to FIFA, only a select group of people are permitted to touch the original trophy with bare hands: FIFA officials, heads of state, and players who have won the World Cup. 

Everyone else, including guests and media, must avoid direct contact. The trophy is also transported under tight security, and for the 2026 final, it arrives in a custom-made Louis Vuitton trunk. These protocols help preserve the trophy’s prestige and ensure its safe handling throughout the tournament.

The FIFA World Cup Trophy is more than a symbol of victory; it is a piece of football history that carries the dreams of nations and generations of players. From the carefully chosen hands that present it to the unforgettable moment when a captain lifts it above their head, every tradition adds to its magic.

Behind every touch, ceremony, and celebration is a story of passion, sacrifice, and glory. As the next champion prepares to write their name in history, one thing remains certain: the journey of this iconic trophy is just as fascinating as the tournament itself.