FIFA World Cup trophy returns to India after 12 years
The FIFA World Cup trophy has returned to India for the first time in 12 years as part of its global tour, giving fans a rare chance to see football’s most iconic prize up close. The trophy arrived this week and will be on display for three days, starting in New Delhi before moving to other cities.
The tour is aimed at promoting the game and building excitement ahead of the next World Cup. “Bringing the trophy back to India reflects the country’s growing connection with football,” a FIFA official said. “The passion of Indian fans is impossible to ignore.”
After its stop in the capital, the trophy will travel to Mumbai, where fans can attend public viewing events organised with local partners. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for supporters,” an organiser said. “Many people have only seen the trophy on television.”
The last time the World Cup trophy visited India was in 2012, and its return underlines football’s expanding footprint in the country, where interest in the global game continues to rise.