FIFA to award champion's ring to 2026 World Cup winners

The 2026 World Cup is set to mark a groundbreaking moment in football history. In addition to lifting the trophy and receiving the traditional gold medals, the world champions will be presented with a championship ring, a reward inspired by the major North American leagues like the NBA, NFL, and MLB.

According to information released by FIFA, each player, member of the technical staff, and team official will receive a personalized ring—a first since the creation of the World Cup in 1930.

Numbered rings in tribute to 2026

In total, 2,026 rings have been crafted, a nod to the year of the tournament. Thirty custom-made rings, reserved exclusively for the future world champions, will be tailored for the players after the final.

During the trophy presentation ceremony, the captain and the head coach will receive a provisional ring on the pitch, before the final models—customized for each individual—are produced.

The remaining 1,996 rings will be sold as official merchandise for supporters worldwide.

Until now, the ultimate symbols of World Cup glory were the trophy and the medals. With this innovation, FIFA is introducing a new tradition that brings the World Cup closer to the spirit of major American sports competitions.

However, at this stage, FIFA has not officially announced this initiative on its official channels. Several media outlets suggest, on the contrary, that champions will continue to receive the trophy and medals, but not a champion's ring.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.