Guwahati gets first glimpse of FIFA WC

Online Staff/GUWAHATI, Jan 13: Guwahati witnessed a rare and memorable sporting moment on Tuesday evening as the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy was unveiled in the city for the first time. The glittering ceremony was held at the ACA Stadium in Barsapara, marking the final stop of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour in India.
The Trophy Tour was jointly launched by FIFA and The Coca-Cola Company, offering football fans across the globe a chance to see the original trophy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tour began in January 3 from Riyadh and will travel across 30 FIFA member associations, covering 75 stops over more than 150 days.
India’s leg of the tour started in New Delhi, with Guwahati being the concluding destination. Notably, this was the first time the FIFA World Cup Trophy toured the North-Eastern region of the country.
A colourful programme was organised on the occasion, attended by Assam’s Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Nandita Gorlosa and Brazilian football legend Gilberto D'Silva. The duo jointly unveiled the trophy amid a large and enthusiastic gathering.
Addressing the audience, Minister Gorlosa described the event as a proud moment for the state. “It is a great honour for Guwahati to host the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour. We have seen the trophy only on television, but today we have the opportunity to witness it up close. Football enjoys immense popularity in the North-East, and this visit will surely have a positive impact on the sport in the region,” she said.
Gilberto D'Silva, who was part of Brazil’s World Cup-winning squad in 2002, expressed his happiness at being part of the tour. “I visited India in 2022 and it is wonderful to be back again. The love and warmth I have received during this visit are truly special. I will carry these memories with me,” he said.
The former Brazil midfielder appeared visibly emotional when the trophy was unveiled. Holding it aloft, he kissed it several times and remarked, “Whenever I hold the trophy, it feels like I am holding my kids. Winning the World Cup is a beautiful and unforgettable memory.”
He also shared a message for the fans present at the stadium, urging them to inspire the younger generation. “I believe football helps us become better human beings. You have witnessed something special today. Go and share this experience to inspire young footballers,” he said.
It may be noted that the FIFA World Cup Trophy returned to India after a gap of 12 years.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the biggest edition in the tournament’s history. It will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, with the competition scheduled to kick off on June 11. A total of 48 teams will take part in the expanded tournament.
PHOTO CAPTION: Assam Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Nandita Gorlosa with Brazilian football legend and 2002 World Cup winner Gilberto D’Silva during the FIFA World Cup Trophy unveiling ceremony in Guwahati. Photo: Subhamoy Bhattacharjee.