Lifting the World Cup is one of the greatest dreams of soccer lovers, whether they are players or fans. The coveted and exclusive trophy has been the star of every edition of the sport’s biggest event and has been in the hands of the champions of each Final, and even of leaders such as Claudia Sheinbaum, Mark Carney and Donald Trump.
However, not just anyone is authorized to touch this valuable trophy, and breaking FIFA’s strict set of rules could result in serious consequences.
Who is allowed to touch the World Cup?
With an estimated value of $20 million and immeasurable historical significance, the trophy is one of the most protected and prestigious in the world of sports. For this reason, there are protocols in place for the safekeeping and protection of the prized cup, made of 6,170 kilograms of solid 18-karat gold and designed by Italian sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga.
FIFA regulations stipulate that the World Cup may only be touched by a select group of people. The winning players and coaching staff are among those authorized to carry, kiss, and celebrate with the original trophy on the field.
Another group of authorized individuals includes heads of state and presidents of the host country -or countries- of the event and of the reigning champion’s country, which is why Donald Trump, Claudia Sheinbaum, and Mark Carney are authorized.
Finally, joining this prestigious list are established soccer legends, specifically designated by FIFA for special events, and FIFA Presidents as the highest authorities, in order to preserve the trophy’s exclusive significance.
With an eye toward the 2026 edition, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, representatives from each country are expected to have specific opportunities to interact with the Cup.
However, if a person not on this list attempts to access or ultimately touches the ultimate trophy, they may be sanctioned with a reprimand or informal ban, or face fines, expulsion from the event, or suspensions.
The most recent case involved chef Salt Bae in 2022, who gained popularity due to his fame. At Lusail Stadium in Qatar, the culinary star snuck into the celebration of Argentina’s third World Cup title and, after struggling to get hold of the trophy, received a harsh penalty: he will not be allowed to attend any matches during the 2026 tournament.
Access is so limited and exclusive that, although the winning team can lift the trophy during the award ceremony, they do not take it home; instead, they receive a gold-plated bronze replica, and the original cup returns to FIFA headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, or remains on display at the World Football Museum, according to sinembargo.mx.
Meanwhile, the opening matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off the tournament on June 11, 2026, with a match between the Mexico national football team and the South Africa national football team at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The match will open the first edition of the World Cup featuring 48 teams and will mark a milestone for the Mexican stadium, which will become the first to host three opening matches of the tournament (following 1970 and 1986). The match, preceded by the opening ceremony, will kick off a tournament that will be played over more than a month at venues across Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
