Assam: Guwahati welcomes FIFA World Cup Trophy as global tour reaches Northeast India
Guwahati: Football fans in the Northeast got a rare treat as the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola returned to India after 12 years, stopping in Guwahati on Thursday ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
In Guwahati, the tour turned this global sporting milestone into a local celebration, combining football’s universal appeal with the region’s vibrant culture.
The event was hosted at ACA Stadium, Barsapara, and gave fans the chance to see the original FIFA World Cup Trophy up close. Attendees also enjoyed interactive zones featuring freestyle football, hands-on exhibits, and curated regional food offerings. Coca-Cola described the showcase as an experience that “Only Coke Can Do.”
Key dignitaries at the event included Nandita Garlosa, Assam’s Minister for Sports & Youth Welfare, and FIFA legend Gilberto Da Silva, former Brazilian World Cup winner.
Coca-Cola leadership, including Sanket Ray, President of Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, Greishma Singh, Vice President of Marketing, and Devyani Rana, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability, were also present.
Sanket Ray spoke about India’s growing sports ecosystem, saying, “Sport in India is entering a defining phase, with wider participation, stronger infrastructure, and greater global engagement. Our long-standing partnership with FIFA allows us to bring such landmark moments closer to Indian fans.”
The FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola is part of a 50-year collaboration with FIFA. During its 150-day global journey, the Trophy will visit 30 FIFA Member Associations across 75 stops, offering fans a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of football.
The iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy is made of 18-carat solid gold, weighs 6.175 kg, and depicts two human figures holding the globe. The current design has been in place since 1974.
The tour also reflected Coca-Cola’s commitment to football culture in India and responsible event management.
Staffed recycling stations, trained volunteers, and clear on-ground guidance ensured proper waste collection and segregation, supporting the company’s #MaidaanSaaf initiative.