New Delhi: For the first time in World Cup history, the winners of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will receive bespoke championship rings in addition to the tournament trophy and gold medals, FIFA said.
The rings, inspired by a longstanding American sporting tradition, will be custom-made for the champions. One side will display the FIFA World Cup trophy, while the opposite side will be tailored to reflect the identity of the winning team. Each ring will be individually numbered, custom-fitted and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
Immediately after the final at Jersey Stadium, the winning side’s captain and head coach will be given temporary rings to mark the victory. The 30 rings for the players and staff will later be fully customised to ensure a perfect fit before their official presentation.
The rings form part of a limited edition of 2,026 pieces — a symbolic nod to the tournament year. Thirty of those will be reserved for the victorious team; the remaining 1,996 will be released as Official Licensed Products for fans worldwide.
The World Cup final — the tournament’s 104th match — sees European champions Spain face defending world and South American champions Argentina. Spain reached the final after beating tournament favourites France in the semi-finals. Argentina earned their place after a dramatic path to the final, led by captain Lionel Messi, who has scored eight goals in this edition and 21 across his World Cup career.
(Inputs from IANS)