FIFA is set to break from its long-standing tradition by awarding World Cup winners’ rings to the champions of Sunday’s final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium.
The American-style rings will be presented during a ceremony attended by US President Donald Trump, who is expected to hand over the World Cup trophy to the winning team.
Unlike previous tournaments where champions received only gold medals, FIFA’s new winners’ rings are inspired by American sports traditions, especially the rings awarded to Super Bowl champions in the NFL.
Only 2,026 individually numbered rings will be produced, representing the 2026 World Cup tournament. Each of the 26 players on the winning team will receive a custom-made ring.
FIFA will create 30 exclusive championship rings for the new world champions, while 1,996 replica versions will be sold to fans who want a piece of World Cup history.
Trump, who has not attended any of the 102 World Cup matches played so far, is set to attend the final after White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his presence.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had earlier suggested that Trump would attend the final. However, their close relationship has attracted criticism after reports emerged that Trump personally contacted Infantino over the red card given to United States striker Folarin Balogun during the tournament.
Meanwhile, FIFA is monitoring weather conditions around New York and New Jersey after an air quality warning was issued due to wildfires in Canada.
Officials have said there is currently no indication that the match at MetLife Stadium will be delayed or affected by the conditions.
