FIFA World Cup 2026 Trophy Begins India Tour with Special Unveiling

The FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy has officially begun its three-day tour in India, unveiled by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and former football star Gilberto D'silva. This event allows fans to experience the iconic trophy firsthand, with stops in Delhi and Guwahati. The tour aims to engage football enthusiasts ahead of the tournament, which will feature a new format with 48 teams. The World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Read on to discover more about this exciting event and what it means for football in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 11, 2026, 01:55 IST

FIFA World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour Kicks Off in India

On January 10, in New Delhi, Union Minister for Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, alongside former Brazilian football star Gilberto D'silva, officially launched the tour of the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy, which will span three days across India.

This unveiling ceremony signifies the commencement of the trophy's journey throughout the nation, offering football enthusiasts a unique chance to see the prestigious trophy up close.

During its stay in India, the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy will be showcased in Delhi for two days before moving to Guwahati for an additional day, thereby extending the celebration to the northeastern part of the country.

This three-day tour is part of FIFA's initiative to broaden the World Cup's outreach and connect with football fans globally as anticipation builds for the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The tournament is scheduled to commence on June 11, featuring Mexico against South Africa in Group A at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

The group stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026 was finalized during a glamorous Final Draw ceremony held at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington DC.

This edition of the World Cup will introduce a new format, accommodating 48 teams for the first time, organized into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will progress to the knockout stage of 32 teams.