NEW YORK — FIFA will award championship rings to World Cup winners for the first time, introducing a North American sporting tradition to international football ahead of Sunday’s final between Argentina and Spain.
In addition to the traditional gold medals and the World Cup trophy, members of the winning team will receive customized championship rings to commemorate their triumph.
The captain and coach of the victorious team will be presented with temporary rings immediately after the final, with the full collection delivered later.
FIFA said the winning squad will receive **30 custom-designed gold rings**, featuring the World Cup trophy on one side and a design reflecting the identity of the champions on the other.
Only **2,026 rings** will be produced, marking the year of the tournament. Each ring will be individually numbered, custom-fitted and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
The remaining **1,996 rings** will be made available for public purchase, although FIFA has not announced pricing details.
Championship rings have long been a tradition in North American sports, particularly in Major League Baseball, the NBA, the NFL and the NHL, where title-winning players and staff receive personalized rings to celebrate their achievements.
The practice dates back to the late 19th century, with early versions awarded to championship hockey teams before becoming a staple across professional sports in the United States and Canada.
Sunday’s World Cup final at MetLife Stadium will therefore crown not only the next world champion but also the first football team to receive FIFA’s inaugural championship rings.
Argentina is aiming to successfully defend the World Cup title for the first time since Brazil in 1962, while Spain is chasing its second world crown after winning the tournament in 2010.
Source: Saudi Gazette