Win Free Tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Trophy Tour Powered by Coca-Cola

The legendary FIFA World Cup Trophy—18-karat solid gold, 36.5 centimeters of pure footballing glory—is coming to South Africa, and Coca-Cola is giving fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see it up close. This isn’t a replica. This is the actual trophy that Messi lifted in Qatar, that Zidane kissed in 1998, that Maradona hoisted in 1986. And you could stand inches away from it, completely free.

As excitement builds toward the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will make history as the first tournament hosted across three nations (USA, Canada, and Mexico), Coca-Cola is bringing the Trophy Tour to South African soil. With stops confirmed in Johannesburg and Cape Town, this promotional campaign offers complimentary access to fans who want to experience football’s ultimate symbol before the tournament kicks off in June 2026.

What Is the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour?

The Trophy Tour is FIFA’s global celebration leading up to each World Cup. The Original Trophy travels to host nations and select countries, allowing fans who might never attend the tournament itself to connect with its most sacred symbol. Coca-Cola, as a FIFA partner since 1978, sponsors these tours as part of its commitment to bringing the game closer to its billions of fans worldwide.

Unlike previous tours that featured replicas, this 2026 edition showcases the authentic FIFA World Cup Trophy—the same one awarded to winning teams since 1974. It weighs 6.175 kilograms, stands on a malachite base, and depicts two human figures holding up the Earth. Only a select few have ever touched it: winning players, coaches, heads of state, and FIFA officials. For everyone else, it exists behind velvet ropes and bulletproof glass.

South Africa Tour Stops: Dates and Venues

Johannesburg

• Date: January 31, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Venue: To be announced
• Ticket Access: Free registration required

Cape Town

• Date: February 1, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Venue: To be announced
• Ticket Access: Free registration required

Both events run for eight hours, but venue details remain under wraps until closer to the dates. Coca-Cola’s strategy mirrors concert drops—building anticipation while controlling crowd management through staggered ticket releases.

How to Claim Your Free Tickets

The process is straightforward but time-sensitive:

1. Visit the Official Page: Navigate to Coca-Cola’s dedicated Trophy Tour portal
2. Sign Up Early: Register with your email and basic details
3. Select Your City: Choose between Johannesburg or Cape Town
4. Confirm Your Slot: Once the venue drops, you’ll receive confirmation details
5. Arrive on Time: Tickets grant access but don’t guarantee Trophy photos—first-come, first-served

Important: Tickets are complimentary but finite. Previous Trophy Tours in countries like Brazil, India, and Saudi Arabia saw tickets disappear within hours. Coca-Cola hasn’t disclosed capacity limits, but if you’re serious about attending, register the moment tickets open.

What to Expect at the Event

The Trophy Experience

The centerpiece is obviously the Trophy itself, displayed in climate-controlled casing with security that rivals museum-grade protection. Fans typically queue for photo opportunities, though Coca-Cola’s fine print clarifies that event access doesn’t automatically include a photo op with the Trophy. Translation: Get there early if you want that Instagram moment.

Interactive Zones

Past Trophy Tours have included:

• FIFA heritage exhibits showcasing World Cup history
• AR photo booths letting fans virtually lift the Trophy
• Skills challenges testing your football abilities
• Merchandise zones selling official 2026 World Cup gear

Celebrity Appearances

While unconfirmed for South Africa, previous tours featured appearances by football legends. Don’t be shocked if former Bafana Bafana stars or global ambassadors show up for autograph sessions.

Why South Africa?

South Africa holds special World Cup significance. The 2010 tournament in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban marked the first World Cup on African soil—a watershed moment that proved Africa could host a world-class sporting event. The vuvuzela became a global phenomenon. Shakira’s “Waka Waka” topped charts worldwide. Spain claimed their first-ever World Cup title.

Sixteen years later, as preparations intensify for the 2026 edition, South Africa’s inclusion in the Trophy Tour honors that legacy while reigniting local passion for the game. The country’s football culture remains vibrant, with the Premier Soccer League drawing massive crowds and the national team continuing to compete in international tournaments.

The 2026 World Cup: What’s Different This Time?

The FIFA World Cup 2026 breaks every precedent:

• 48 teams (up from 32), meaning more nations qualify
• 104 matches (an increase of 40 games)
• 16 host cities across three countries
• Expanded format with 12 groups of four teams each

This expansion dramatically increases Africa’s representation. CAF (Confederation of African Football) will send nine teams to the tournament, up from five in 2022. South African fans could witness Bafana Bafana competing on the world stage if they navigate qualifying successfully—track the latest qualification updates here.

The Trophy’s Fascinating History

Few sports trophies carry the mystique of the FIFA World Cup Trophy. Designed by Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga and introduced in 1974, it replaced the original Jules Rimet Trophy (which Brazil kept permanently after their third win in 1970). The current Trophy has been lifted by legends like Pelé, Diego Maradona, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, and most recently, Lionel Messi.

Fun Facts:

• The Trophy is valued at approximately $20 million
• It’s made of 18-karat gold weighing 6.175 kg
• Only six players have lifted it twice: Pelé (1958, 1962), Cafu (1994, 2002), and four French players from 1998 and 2018
• The base contains engravings of all past winners, with space for names until 2038

Planning Your Visit: Pro Tips

Timing Strategy

• Weekday advantage: If you have flexibility, mid-morning on a workday typically sees lighter crowds
• Opening rush: Hardcore fans line up before doors open—arrive 30 minutes early minimum
• Closing window: The final hour often thins out as casual visitors leave

What to Bring

• Valid ID: Security will verify your ticket registration
• Charged phone: You’ll want battery life for photos
• Comfortable shoes: Expect standing and queuing
• Light layers: Indoor venues may be climate-controlled, but outdoor queues could be hot

What to Leave Home

• Large bags: Most venues enforce strict bag policies
• Outside food/drink: Typically prohibited (though Coca-Cola products will likely be available)
• Professional cameras: Phones usually allowed; DSLRs may not be

Beyond the Trophy: Other 2026 Experiences

If you’re planning to fully immerse yourself in World Cup 2026, start preparing now:

• Ticket information for actual tournament matches will likely open in 2025
• Travel packages to North American host cities are already being marketed
• Qualification matches continue through early 2026—follow your team’s journey

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do tickets to the Trophy Tour cost?
Zero. Coca-Cola provides completely free access, but you must register in advance. There are no hidden fees or purchase requirements.

Can I take photos with the Trophy?
Event access doesn’t guarantee a photo opportunity with the Trophy itself. Arrive early to maximize your chances, as photo slots are distributed first-come, first-served.

When will venues be announced?
Johannesburg and Cape Town venues will be revealed closer to the January 31 and February 1 event dates. Registered attendees receive venue details via email.

Is there an age limit for attendees?
Trophy Tours typically welcome all ages, though minors may need adult supervision. Check registration terms for specific requirements.

What if I can’t attend on the dates listed?
The Trophy Tour visits select cities only. If South African dates don’t work, the Trophy will travel to other countries leading up to June 2026—monitor FIFA and Coca-Cola announcements.

Do I need to buy Coca-Cola products to get tickets?
No purchase necessary. This is a promotional event open to all registered fans regardless of purchasing behavior.

The FIFA World Cup Trophy represents decades of dreams, heartbreak, and glory. For 90% of football fans, this Trophy Tour is the closest they’ll ever get to touching that history. Coca-Cola and FIFA are betting that these emotional moments—a photo, a memory, a story to tell—will sustain passion for the game long after the 2026 final whistle blows.

Don’t let this chance slip away. Register now, mark your calendar, and prepare to stand in the presence of the most coveted prize in sports.