FIFA World Cup Trophy touches down in Toronto to 'excitement, joy and tears'
CBC
The most famous trophy in the world of sports touched down in Toronto Wednesday morning.
The FIFA World Cup Trophy, emblematic of international soccer supremacy, made its only Canadian stop as part of a global tour ahead the tournament that kicks off Nov. 20 in Qatar.
For Dwayne De Rosario, the former Canadian men's national team midfielder who helped greet the solid gold trophy at Pearson Airport, the excitement and energy was palpable as officials unveiled it in a glass case. He said he had never been that close to the trophy before Wednesday.
"I was full of emotions, excitement and joy and tears," he told CBC Toronto.
"I can remember watching guys like Maradona and Pele, and these players lift this trophy, and it's like, 'Wow, you're right there.' It's a dream come true."
The trophy headed to BMO Field at Exhibition Place for an afternoon VIP reception, "fan activation" event and fireside chat with former Canadian national team players.
The original trophy is on 51-country tour to build excitement for the tournament..On Nov. 23, Canada will play its first game. The U.S., Canada and Mexico will host the tournament in 2026.
De Rosario said it's an important symbol that carries meaning beyond the field.
"It's a trophy that unites the world. It brings the world together. Every nation, every continent, every country is involved in football in some capacity," he said.
"To know that it's coming to our city, it's far beyond the sport. It's going to create history, it's going to create culture."
Made of 18 carat gold, the original World Cup Trophy stands 36.8 centimetres tall, or 14.5 inches, and it weights 6.142 kilograms, or 13.54 pounds. It depicts two human figures holding a globe aloft.
Fans were able to have their photos taken with the trophy at BMO field.
Toronto Mayor John Tory, also on hand for the unveiling of the trophy, said he's excited about Canada's participation at the World Cup this year.
He added he is looking ahead to 2026, when Toronto will be among the host cities. A big international spectacle such as the World Cup will do a lot for the city economically and will mean jobs, he said.
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