FIFA introduces championship rings for World Cup winners ahead of 2026 final

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final is set to deliver not only football glory but also a new piece of history. FIFA has announced that the winners of this year's tournament will receive championship rings in addition to the traditional World Cup trophy and gold medals.

The historic final will see Argentina take on Spain on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Both teams earned their place in the title clash after impressive performances in the semi-finals. Spain secured a dominant victory over France, while Argentina defeated England 2-1 in a dramatic encounter, with Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scoring crucial late goals.

As excitement builds for one of the biggest matches in world football, FIFA has revealed a new tradition that will make this World Cup even more memorable for the winning team.

New honour for World Cup champions

For the first time in the history of the men's FIFA World Cup, championship rings will be awarded to the tournament winners. The rings are designed to celebrate the achievement of becoming world champions and are inspired by a tradition that is especially popular in American sports.

Championship rings are commonly awarded in leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, where winning teams receive customised rings as a symbol of their success. With the 2026 World Cup being hosted in North America, FIFA has decided to introduce a similar honour for football's biggest tournament.

According to FIFA, 30 customised championship rings will be created for members of the winning team. These rings will be given to players, coaches and key members of the management staff who helped guide the team to World Cup glory.

Immediately after the final, the winning captain and head coach will receive temporary championship rings during the celebrations. The permanent versions will then be specially customised and presented to the champions at a later ceremony.

Each ring will include unique details linked to the winning team. One side will feature the iconic FIFA World Cup trophy, while the other side will be personalised to reflect the identity and achievements of the champions.

FIFA believes the introduction of championship rings will add another layer of recognition for players who reach the pinnacle of international football. Winning the World Cup is considered the greatest achievement in the sport, and the governing body hopes the rings will serve as a lasting reminder of that accomplishment.

The announcement has already generated excitement among football fans around the world, especially with the final only days away.

In addition to the rings awarded to the champions, FIFA has also announced a special opportunity for supporters. A total of 1,996 individually numbered championship rings will be produced and made available for purchase by fans.

The number 1,996 has been chosen as a limited-edition figure, making the rings collectible items for football enthusiasts. FIFA expects strong interest from supporters who want to own a unique piece of World Cup history.

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Messi eyes another record

While FIFA's new championship rings have become a major talking point ahead of the final, much of the attention remains focused on Argentina captain Lionel Messi.

The football legend is preparing to make yet another piece of history. If he starts Sunday's final against Spain, Messi will become the first player ever to start three FIFA World Cup finals.

Throughout his career, Messi has broken countless records and won nearly every major trophy available in football. Another appearance in a World Cup final would add to his remarkable list of achievements and further strengthen his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

Messi is also chasing another important milestone. He currently shares the lead in the race for the Golden Boot with France star Kylian Mbappe. Both players have scored eight goals during the tournament.

The competition for the award remains open because goals scored in the third-place playoff also count towards the final standings. This means Mbappe still has an opportunity to move ahead of Messi before the final takes place.

Several other players are also mathematically in contention. France forward Ousmane Dembele and Spain striker Mikel Oyarzabal have scored five goals each and could still influence the race with strong performances in their remaining matches.

As football fans look forward to the final, FIFA has also planned an elaborate closing ceremony to celebrate the end of the tournament.

The event will begin 90 minutes before kick-off and is expected to feature several internationally known personalities. Among those scheduled to appear are music star Post Malone, internet personality IShowSpeed and Hollywood actor Tom Cruise.

The entertainment will continue during halftime, with a star-studded musical performance featuring Justin Bieber, Madonna, Coldplay, Shakira and BTS. FIFA hopes the show will provide a memorable celebration of football and entertainment on one of the sport's biggest stages.

With Argentina and Spain preparing for a highly anticipated showdown, the final promises drama both on and off the field. The winners will not only lift the famous World Cup trophy and receive gold medals but will also become the first team in men's World Cup history to earn FIFA championship rings.

For players, coaches and supporters alike, Sunday will be a day to remember. Whether it is Messi making history, Spain chasing another world title, or the introduction of a brand-new tradition, the 2026 World Cup final is set to deliver a unique chapter in football history.