- Original FIFA World Cup™ Trophy officially welcomed to Côte d’Ivoire
- Prime Minister Beugré Mambé leads historic reception
- Coca-Cola and FIFA praised for uniting communities through football
The excitement of football took centre stage as His Excellency Beugré Mambé, Prime Minister of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, officially welcomed the Original FIFA World Cup™ Trophy to the country, creating a memorable highlight during the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola.
The arrival of football’s most prestigious prize brought together thousands of fans, athletes, and community members in a shared celebration of national pride and passion for the beautiful game. It offered many a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the iconic trophy up close.
“Hosting the Original FIFA World Cup™ Trophy is a moment of great pride for our nation,” Prime Minister Beugré Mambé said. “Football inspires hope, joy, and unity—values that resonate deeply with our people. We are grateful to Coca-Cola and FIFA for bringing this remarkable experience to Côte d’Ivoire.”
The Trophy Tour stop in Abidjan featured vibrant fan activities, including public viewing sessions that allowed supporters to admire the trophy and capture memorable photographs. The celebrations also included a high-energy concert headlined by renowned Ivorian artists, alongside interactive games designed to bring communities together through football.
“The passion and energy of fans in Côte d’Ivoire have been truly inspiring,” said Rodrigue Bila, Vice President for Franchise Operations, West, Islands and Mid-Africa at the Coca-Cola Africa Operating Unit. “Through the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, we are proud to unite people in celebration of their love for football and the powerful emotions the game creates. This tour reflects our commitment to refreshing the world and inspiring moments of happiness through shared experiences.”
Through the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, the company continues to connect fans to the heart of the game, fostering moments of excitement, unity, and shared emotion that highlight football’s universal appeal.
“We are delighted by the incredible enthusiasm shown by fans in Côte d’Ivoire,” said Romy Gai, FIFA’s Chief Business Officer. “The FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola continues to bring people from all walks of life together through the shared joy of the beautiful game.”
FIFA Legend Marcel Desailly also praised the occasion, noting the pride the trophy brings to fans worldwide. “The excitement here in Côte d’Ivoire reflects the nation’s deep passion for football and makes moments like this truly special,” he said.
As one of FIFA’s longest-standing partners and a sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™ since 1978, Coca-Cola continues to promote optimism and connection through football. For the Trophy Tour, the company is working closely with local teams to support its sustainability goals, including recycling initiatives and more efficient transportation solutions.
