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Fact check: What is the protocol for awarding the FIFA World Cup trophy?
1. Summary of the results
Based on the analyses provided, the FIFA World Cup trophy protocol involves a clear distinction between the original trophy and what winners actually receive. The original FIFA World Cup trophy is permanently housed at the FIFA World Football Museum in Zürich, Switzerland [1]. Winners of the World Cup do not keep the original trophy but instead receive a gold-plated bronze replica [1] [2].
The current FIFA World Cup trophy has been in use since 1974, replacing the original Jules Rimet Trophy which was used from 1930 to 1970 [2]. The Jules Rimet Trophy was awarded permanently to Brazil in 1970 after they won their third World Cup [2]. The current trophy is made of 18-karat gold with a circular base of two layers of malachite, and the names of winning countries are engraved on the base [2].
The original trophy remains in FIFA's possession at its Zurich headquarters, except for ceremonial requirements [2]. This protocol ensures the preservation of the original while allowing winners to have a permanent commemorative trophy.
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
The original question lacks several important contextual elements that the analyses reveal:
- Historical evolution: The protocol changed significantly in 1974 when FIFA introduced the current system. Before 1974, the Jules Rimet Trophy could be won permanently, which Brazil achieved [2].
- Different FIFA tournaments have different protocols: The analyses mention that FIFA Club World Cup champions also receive replicas while FIFA retains the original [1] [3]. This suggests a consistent FIFA policy across tournaments.
- Security and preservation concerns: The permanent housing of the original trophy at FIFA headquarters [2] reflects institutional priorities for preserving football's most prestigious artifact, which benefits FIFA's brand and museum operations.
- Ceremonial exceptions: The original trophy is used for "ceremonial requirements" [2], though the specific protocols for these occasions are not detailed in the analyses.
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original question itself does not contain misinformation, as it simply asks about the protocol. However, there are potential areas where misinformation commonly occurs regarding this topic:
- Common misconception about permanent ownership: Many people believe World Cup winners keep the original trophy permanently, which the analyses clearly refute [1] [2].
- Confusion between different FIFA tournaments: The analyses reference both the FIFA World Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, which have similar replica protocols but are distinct competitions [3] [1].
- Limited transparency about ceremonial use: FIFA benefits from maintaining control over when and how the original trophy appears publicly, as this enhances the organization's prestige and authority over football's premier competition [2].
The analyses suggest that FIFA's institutional interests are served by maintaining possession of original trophies across their competitions, ensuring continued relevance and control over football's most symbolic prizes.