Coca-Cola has brought the original FIFA World Cup Trophy to India after a gap of twelve years as part of the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, marking a major brand-led sporting activation ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. As the exclusive partner of the Trophy Tour, Coca-Cola continues a partnership with FIFA that spans over 50 years. The Tour began with a FIFA Charter Landing and the official unveiling of the Trophy at the Taj Mahal Hotel. The event was attended by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, FIFA legend Gilberto D’Silva, sports historian Boria Majumdar, and senior Coca-Cola executives including Sanket Ray, Greishma Singh and Devyani Rana.
Mandaviya said the initiative aligns with India’s push to make sports a national priority under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, linking youth empowerment with the goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Sanket Ray noted that government-led reforms are expanding sports infrastructure and participation, creating opportunities for global brands to deepen consumer engagement.
Globally, the Trophy will travel to 30 countries across 75 stops over 150 days. Made of 18-carat solid gold and weighing 6.175 kg, the Trophy has been in use since 1974 and can be touched only by former World Cup winners, Heads of State and the FIFA President. Kolkata, known for its deep-rooted football culture, the Trophy Tour is seen as a high-impact brand engagement opportunity. Market analysts say Coca-Cola’s association with football history strengthens emotional recall among consumers in Kolkata, helping the company reinforce loyalty and visibility in a city where football commands strong commercial and cultural influence.
