The golden trophy of the FIFA Women’s World Cup is making its way around the world, visiting all 32 countries competing in the tournament before it reaches its final destination in Australia and New Zealand this summer. The trophy has been on the road since February 25th, visiting countries such as Japan, South Africa, the United States, and Jamaica. Toronto had the pleasure of welcoming Sarah Gandoin, the senior trophy tour manager, who has been with the trophy every step of the way. She oversees the tour and ensures that the trophy remains with her at all times, never in cargo.
Gandoin spoke about the excitement surrounding the trophy’s tour and how it is received with open arms wherever it goes. Canada is no exception, with many fans taking selfies beside the trophy at its showcase event. The trophy tour is an opportunity for Australia and New Zealand, the co-hosts of the World Cup, to show the world what they can do as major events hosts. The tournament runs from July 20th to August 20th, with the Canadian women playing their group games in Australia.
The current trophy, designed by William Sawaya of the Milan firm Sawaya and Moroni, weighs 4.6 kilograms and stands 47 centimetres tall. It is made from gold-plated brass with a base made from candeias granite. The trophy’s history off the field is just as fascinating as its presence on it. FIFA commissioned Angelo Brogioli to make the original trophy, and Norway won it in 1995, displaying it in the Norwegian Football Association offices. However, the trophy went missing during renovations in 1997 and has never been found.
The trophy visit was a welcome return to soccer for Canada Soccer’s general secretary Earl Cochrane, who has had to answer questions about the ongoing labor dispute with the men’s and women’s teams in recent months. Cochrane is optimistic about the talks and says they are nearing a resolution. He is excited about the tournament and knows it will inspire little boys and girls to dream of playing like the likes of Diana Matheson, Robyn Gayle, and Jonelle Filigno. Cochrane is pleased to see the hard work put into the tournament paying off and looks forward to seeing Canada perform well in the competition.