Fifa World Cup Trophy in Bangladesh

Sports Reporter, Dhaka, Dec 18: Fifa World Cup Trophy arrived at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Tuesday afternoon, as part of its tour to 88 different countries.

The Coca-Cola Company, in partnership with Fifa and Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), are working to organise this 3-day tour of the coveted trophy.

BFF chief Kazi Salahuddin, along with Coca-Cola representatives, was present to receive the trophy in the afternoon.

A delegation, including BFF President Kazi Salahuddin, BFF Senior Vice-President Abdus Salam Murshedy and Global Representative for FIFA Jan Schetters, went to the Bangabhaban along with the trophy in the afternoon.

President Abdul Hamid received the trophy at Bangabhaban at 3 pm and hoisted it above his head with enthusiasm like a true soccer fan.

President Abdul Hamid lifted the Fifa World Cup Trophy with his own hands at Bangabhaban as the original trophy arrived in the country for the first time in history.

Abdul Hamid thanked Fifa for including Bangladesh in the Fifa World Cup Trophy Tour. The President said the display of the original trophy will inspire thousands of local football fans.

Later, the trophy was taken to the Prime Ministers official residence Ganobhaban in the afternoon to show it to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

A 45-member delegation, led by BFF president Kazi M Salahuddin, comprising officials of BFF, Fifa and soft drink maker Coca-Cola, a corporate partner of Fifa accompany went to Ganobhaban with Trophy.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina unveiled the 36.5 centimeter long Gold Trophy — 13 centimeters in diameter and 6.175 kg in weight.

Later, Sheikh Hasina posed for photographs with the trophy. BFF President Kazi M Salahuddin, National Football Coach Lodewijk de Kruif and family members of the Prime Minister were, among others, present on the occasion.

The trophy was supposed to be displayed at the Bangabandhu National Stadium on December 18 and 19, but the plan was cancelled due to security reason. The trophy will be kept in Hotel Radisson for display where the lucky fans will have the opportunity to have a souvenir photo taken of themselves with the trophy, view a special hologram animation showcasing memorable moments of the Fifa World Cup, participate in interactive displays and enjoy other entertainment.

The trophy will be kept open for approximately 15,000 invitees from 9 am to 6 pm on Wednesday and 9 am to 2 pm on Thursday.

Eleven years ago, a replica of the 2002 Fifa World Cup Trophy landed in Bangladesh. The original World Cup trophy will be touring the country this year for the first time. The trophy will stay in Dhaka from December 17th to 19th.

Italian sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga, who said he is not a diehard football fan himself but does watch the World Cup final to see his trophy raised, designed the current trophy in 1971. At the time, the trophy cost about US$50,000. Today, the trophy is worth over US$10 million. It comprised a decagonal cup, supported by a winged figure representing Nike, the ancient Greek goddess of victory.

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