The FIFA World Cup Trophy is arguably one of the most iconic prizes in the sporting world. So far, two different trophies (奖杯) have been used in the history of the FIFA World Cups.
The Jules Rimet Trophy was the first trophy awarded to the winners of the FIFA World Cups. Initially, the old trophy was originally named “Victory”. However, this trophy was renamed “the Jules Rimet Trophy” in 1946. This change was made to honor former FIFA president Jules Rimet, who voted to organize the first FIFA World Cup in 1930. French sculptor Abel Lafleur designed the trophy in 1930. The trophy was 14 inches in height and weighed 8.4 pounds. It was comprised of a winged representation of Nike and the Greek Goddess of Victory.
Uruguay became the first champion and kept the trophy in 1930. The trophy was eventually retired when Brazil won the World Cup final for the third time in 1970. Following their success in Mexico, Brazil was allowed to keep the trophy permanently. However, the original trophy was stolen for a second time in 1983. It was never recovered, and it was claimed that it had been melted down into gold bars. Following the retirement of the Jules Rimet Trophy, FIFA needed a new cup. Eventually, Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga’s design was selected as the new World Cup trophy.
The modern FIFA World Cup trophy describes two human figures holding the earth on top of their heads. The base of the trophy has “FIFA World Cup” engraved (刻). Furthermore, following every World Cup, the name of the winning team and the winning year is also engraved at the base. The trophy weighs 13.61 pounds. Unlike the Jules Rimet Trophy, the winning nations and future winners don’t get to hold the original trophy anymore. The new regulations state that it remains in FIFA’s possession. Instead, winners are given a gold-plated bronze replica (青铜复制品) provided by FIFA.
The new trophy can hold up to seventeen names and years and is likely to be retired following the 2038 World Cup.
【小题1】Why was the first World Cup trophy renamed?| A．To remember the designer of the cup. |
| B．To welcome a new global soccer event. |
| C．To expand the popularity of the World Cup. |
| D．To show great respect for the former FIFA president. |
| A．Covered. | B．Made up. |
| C．Occupied. | D．Included. |
| A．It is made of gold and bronze. |
| B．It varies in design every seventeen years. |
| C．It bears the word “Victory” at the bottom. |
| D．It is owned by FIFA instead of the winners. |
| A．The Rules of the World Cup |
| B．The History of the World Cup Trophy |
| C．The Growing Trend of Watching the World Cup |
| D．The Inspiration for Creating the World Cup Trophy |
