The winners of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will receive championship rings for the first time in the tournament’s history, FIFA has confirmed.
The rings, a tradition synonymous with American sports such as the NFL’s Super Bowl or even NBA Championships will be presented alongside the World Cup trophy after the final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
A total of 30 rings will be awarded to members of the victorious squad, with each featuring a miniature World Cup trophy as part of its design and a personalised engraving inside the band. FIFA will also produce 1,996 replica rings for supporters to purchase.
The final will also be attended by United States President Donald Trump, who is expected to present the World Cup trophy to the champions.
Trump has not attended any of the tournament’s 102 matches, including all of the United States’ games before the hosts were eliminated 4-1 by Belgium in the Round of 16.
Meanwhile, organisers are monitoring air quality in the New York area after wildfires in Canada prompted weather warnings. However, there is currently no indication that conditions will affect Sunday’s showpiece.
Argentina and Spain will battle for football’s biggest prize, with the champions set to leave not only with the World Cup trophy but also a unique commemorative ring marking their triumph.
