Morocco to host World Cup trophy as FIFA launches global tour before 2026 finals

The FIFA World Cup trophy will visit Morocco as part of an extensive global tour launched ahead of the 2026 tournament, giving fans in the country the opportunity to see the most coveted prize in world football up close.

FIFA confirmed that the sixth edition of the World Cup Trophy Tour will begin on January 3, 2026, marking the start of a worldwide journey designed to build anticipation for the expanded finals later that year.

The opening stop will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, setting the tone for what FIFA has described as its most ambitious trophy tour to date.

Over a period of more than 150 days, the iconic trophy will travel to 75 destinations across 30 FIFA member associations.

The tour will span several continents, reflecting the global nature of the competition and its growing reach.

Morocco is among the countries selected to host the trophy, alongside nations that will stage the 2026 World Cup — Canada, the United States and Mexico — as well as future hosts of major international events such as Portugal, Spain, Saudi Arabia and Brazil.

For Moroccan supporters, the visit represents more than a ceremonial stop.

It offers a rare chance to connect directly with the symbol of the world’s biggest sporting competition, reinforcing the country’s deep ties to international football and its rising profile on the global stage.

FIFA has positioned the tour as a celebration not only of the upcoming tournament but also of the cultures and communities that make up the global football family.

At each location, fans will be invited to take part in a range of activities designed to create an immersive experience.

These include interactive displays, branded fan zones, technical challenges and exclusive content.

FIFA Legends are also expected to attend selected events, giving supporters the chance to engage with former stars while soaking up the atmosphere associated with a World Cup year.

The 2026 tour carries additional significance as it marks the 20th anniversary of the Trophy Tour initiative.

Since its launch, the event has grown into one of FIFA’s most successful fan engagement programmes.

According to FIFA, more than four million supporters from 182 markets have taken part in previous editions, underlining the enduring appeal of seeing the original trophy beyond the confines of the tournament itself.

FIFA officials have highlighted the symbolic importance of the upcoming tour, particularly as the 2026 World Cup will be the largest ever, featuring more teams and more matches than any previous edition.

Romy Gai, FIFA’s Director of Commercial Affairs, underlined the scale of the project and its meaning for supporters worldwide.

In five editions, the trophy has visited 182 of our 211 member associations. This new tour will be exceptional, both because of its anniversary and the approach of the greatest World Cup of all time, he said.

As the countdown to 2026 continues, the trophy’s stop in Morocco is expected to generate strong public interest and add to the sense of excitement surrounding the tournament.

For many fans, it will be a moment to celebrate football’s past, present and future, united by a symbol that represents the pinnacle of the global game.