Football fever is sweeping across India as the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy makes its triumphant return to the nation. After a 12-year hiatus, the original FIFA World Cup Trophy will visit India as part of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, a global celebration leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This marks one of the most anticipated sporting events for Indian football fans, offering a rare opportunity to witness football’s most coveted prize up close.
When Is the FIFA World Cup Trophy Coming to India?
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The FIFA World Cup Trophy will visit India during the following dates in January 2026:
| City | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | January 10-11, 2026 | Grand FIFA Charter Landing on January 10; Trophy viewing at NSIC Grounds, Okhla on January |
| Guwahati | January 13, 2026 | FIFA World Cup Trophy Exhibition with concurrent Magh Bihu celebrations |
The tour encompasses more than 75 stops across 30 FIFA Member Associations worldwide, with India being a key destination in this historic global journey.
Where to See the Trophy: Venue Details
New Delhi: NSIC Grounds, Okhla
The trophy’s arrival in New Delhi on January 10, 2026, will be marked by a grand FIFA Charter Landing ceremony—a symbolic celebration of national pride and excitement.
On January 11, select fans will have the exclusive opportunity to view the original FIFA World Cup Trophy at the NSIC Grounds in Okhla, one of Delhi’s premier sports venues.
The venue will feature:
- Close-up trophy viewing experiences
- Interactive football-themed engagement zones
- Freestyle football demonstrations and clinics
- Culinary festivals celebrating India’s regional cuisine with football as the centerpiece
- Responsible waste-management practices under Coca-Cola’s Maidaan Saaf initiative
Guwahati: FIFA World Cup Trophy Exhibition
Guwahati will host the second leg of India’s trophy tour on January 13, 2026, coinciding with the region’s vibrant Magh Bihu festivities—a celebration deeply rooted in Assamese culture. This synchronization creates a unique cultural crescendo that merges sport with regional tradition.
The Guwahati venue promises:
- Once-in-a-lifetime trophy viewing opportunities
- Football-themed engagement zones
- Freestyle football zones featuring professional freestylers
- Regional culinary celebrations
- Integration with Assam’s celebrated Magh Bihu festival activities.
What Is the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola?
The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola is an iconic global initiative that brings the original FIFA World Cup Trophy to fans across multiple nations.
This exclusive partnership between FIFA and The Coca-Cola Company spans two decades, having brought football’s greatest prize to 182 of FIFA’s 211 Member Associations since its inception.
Historical Significance
The FIFA World Cup Trophy has been awarded since 1930, with the current trophy design introduced in 1974.
Its journey across continents represents more than just a physical object—it embodies the dreams, passion, and unity of billions of football fans worldwide.
The original trophy is permanently displayed at the FIFA World Cup Museum in Zurich, Switzerland, but makes these rare international appearances to connect with fans globally.
Purpose and Impact
According to Romy Gai, FIFA’s Chief Business Officer, the FIFA World Cup Trophy is “recognized around the world as the greatest symbol in sport.” The tour’s primary objectives include:
- Fan Engagement: Providing fans with unprecedented access to football’s most iconic prize
- Building Anticipation: Creating excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Cultural Connection: Uniting communities through their shared passion for football
- Community Impact: Promoting positive social initiatives in local areas
Why India? A Growing Football Nation
India’s inclusion in the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour highlights the nation’s rapidly expanding football culture and the Indian Super League’s (ISL) success in creating a competitive domestic football ecosystem.
With millions of aspiring football enthusiasts and growing viewership of international football competitions, India represents a crucial market for global football development.
The tour’s timing—just months before the FIFA World Cup 2026—demonstrates FIFA’s commitment to building excitement across diverse markets and engaging emerging football communities.
Exclusive Experiences and Fan Activities
Both New Delhi and Guwahati venues will offer immersive experiences beyond trophy viewing:
Football-Themed Engagement Zones
Interactive zones will allow fans to participate in:
- Skill-based football challenges
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with football personalities
- Photo opportunities with the trophy
- Educational sessions on football history and technique
Freestyle Football Demonstrations
Professional freestylers will showcase their extraordinary skills, inspiring young talent and demonstrating the artistry of football beyond traditional match play.
Regional Culinary Festivals
The tour celebrates India’s diverse food culture by featuring regional cuisines, merging the joy of football with gastronomic celebration. This approach connects sport with everyday culture, making the experience deeply personal for attendees.
Sustainability and Community Responsibility
The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility through Coca-Cola India’s flagship Maidaan Saaf initiative, which focuses on responsible waste collection, segregation, and recycling at high-footfall public events.
At both New Delhi and Guwahati venues, the tour will implement:
- Staffed recycling stations
- Temporary material recovery hubs
- Trained volunteer teams
- On-ground guidance for responsible waste disposal
- Efforts to minimize waste sent to landfills
This integration of sports events with sustainability demonstrates how large-scale community gatherings can be managed responsibly while preserving the environment.
2026 FIFA World Cup: The Biggest Yet
The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour comes in advance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be the largest tournament in history. For the first time, the World Cup will span three host nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
This expanded format will feature more teams, more matches, and more celebrations than any previous edition.
The trophy tour serves as a global celebration and confidence builder ahead of this historic tournament, allowing fans in non-hosting nations to feel part of the global football phenomenon.
How to Get Tickets and Participate
Fans interested in experiencing the FIFA World Cup Trophy can:
- Visit Official Websites: Check Coca-Cola India’s official website and FIFA’s channels for ticket information and registration details.
- Follow Social Media: Stay updated on upcoming announcements through official FIFA and Coca-Cola social media accounts.
- Register Online: Early registration may be required due to expected high demand at both venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an entry fee to see the FIFA World Cup Trophy?
Entry details and ticket pricing will be announced closer to the tour dates through official channels.
Q: Can I bring family members, including children?
Yes, the tour is designed as a family-friendly experience. Specific guidelines regarding age restrictions or supervision will be clarified in official announcements.
Q: Will there be merchandise or commemorative items available?
Typically, such tours offer official FIFA and Coca-Cola merchandise. Details will be confirmed by the organizers.
Q: Can I take photographs with the trophy?
Yes, photo opportunities are part of the fan experience, though specific guidelines may apply.
The Emotional Connection: What the Trophy Means to Indian Football Fans
For Indian football enthusiasts, the arrival of the FIFA World Cup Trophy represents more than a symbolic gesture—it signifies global recognition of India’s growing passion for football.
Decades of hope, dedication, and dreams are embodied in this trophy, and its presence in Indian cities will inspire the next generation of footballers and reinvigorate the sport across the nation.
As India continues to develop its football infrastructure through the Indian Super League and grassroots initiatives, the trophy tour serves as a powerful reminder of what is achievable and the dreams worth pursuing on the global stage.
Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss this once-in-a-decade opportunity to witness football’s greatest prize:
- New Delhi: January 10-11, 2026
- Guwahati: January 13, 2026
Stay tuned to official FIFA and Coca-Cola channels for ticket releases, schedules, and exclusive updates about this historic event in Indian football.
