FIFA World Cup trophy comes to Lanseria

South Africans had the opportunity to see of the magnificent 18-carat gold FIFA World Cup trophy as part of the global tour presented by Coca Cola at Lanseria International Airport.

The extraordinary trophy returned to South Africa for the first time in four years. It has travelled to 88 countries in 267 days before it reaches its final destination in Brazil for the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals.

The trophy arrived in South Africa from Tanzania, accompanied by FIFA personnel and Coca-Cola leadership, as well as SABC’s Soccer Zone sports presenter Minnie Dlamini, who was chosen by Coca-Cola as one of its ambassadors. President of the South African Football Association Danny Jordan and president of the Coca Cola Southern Africa Business Unit Therese Gearhart were among the dignitaries there to welcome the trophy. The glittering ceremony took place at the Lanseria Airport on 1 December. Dignitaries and the public welcomed the trophy in a true Brazilian-style ceremony with samba dancers kick starting the prestigious event. “I hope the trophy will inspire South Africans to be more passionate about soccer and dream bigger,” Jordan said.

He also encouraged Brazil not be discouraged by criticism about their ability to host as South Africa also experienced the same resistance.

Fans also had the opportunity to have souvenir pictures taken of them with the gold trophy.

“The trophy’s arrival evokes special memories of the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament, one of the best ever hosted in the world. This is the third time that Coca-Cola has partnered with FIFA to bring the trophy to people all around the world. We call it the ‘World’s Cup’ while the trophy is on tour,” said Gearhart.

Coca-Cola travelled to Diepsloot Kids club, an organisation that provides afternoon care for teens, after the ceremony.