For the first time in 96 years, FIFA is unveiling a special award ahead of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina

FIFA unveils historic World Cup rings (Image: X) For the first time in the 96-year history of the FIFA World Cup, champions will be awarded exclusive FIFA World Cup Championship rings, adding a new symbol of glory alongside the iconic trophy. The rings will debut after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, scheduled for Sunday, July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford.One side of the championship ring features the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy, while the other will be custom designed to reflect the identity of the winning nation. FIFA also revealed a limited collection of 2,026 rings, with 30 reserved for World Cup winners and the remaining 1,996 available to fans around the world.Immediately following the final, the winning team’s captain and head coach will receive temporary championship rings during an on-field celebration. The final versions of the 30 rings for the winners will later be individually tailored and officially unveiled, ensuring individual customization and creating a lasting memento of their World Cup triumph.

Spain vs Argentina: a final for the ages

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final will kick off at 15:00 local time (Monday, July 20 at 12:30 IST), with Spain and Argentina battling it out for football’s biggest prize and the inaugural championship.The showdown also features a gripping generational story as 39-year-old Lionel Messi prepares to face 19-year-old Lamin Yamal in their first ever competitive meeting. The clash sparked worldwide interest, boosted by the rediscovery of a 2008 charity photoshoot in which a 20-year-old Messi posed with baby Yamal in a bathtub at the Camp Nou, a moment that has since become one of football’s most iconic images.Argentina booked their place in the final with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England, ending the Three Lions’ hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966. Spain, meanwhile, secured their first World Cup finals appearance since lifting the trophy in 2010, beating France 2-0 in the aggregate semi-final.