The World Cup trophy will travel in style to East Rutherford, New Jersey, this weekend, with Parisian luxury brand Louis Vuitton designing the carrying case for the most coveted prize in the sport.
The unique trunk features a golden V for “Victory” – and “Vuitton” – across the front, with the brand’s recognisable monogram pattern and gold-plated brass corner protectors. The interior is lined with beige leather and features a patch commemorating the partnership between Louis Vuitton and FIFA. It is the fifth successive tournament in which Louis Vuitton has outfitted the trunk for the trophy.
Luxury brands have long staked out their territory in the world of professional sport, with Tiffany & Co. having crafted every Lombardi Trophy since the very first Super Bowl the NFL staged in 1967.
Louis Vuitton also crafts bespoke luxury trophy trunks for major Grand Prix circuits under a 10-year deal with Formula 1.
But there is only one trophy for the quadrennial global showpiece – the prize typically resides at the FIFA Museum in Zurich – making the chance to design its bespoke luggage a particular honour.
At a Manhattan media event on Thursday (July 17), white-gloved handlers brought the trophy out for display, while a local artist hand-painted World Cup-themed cases being sold in honour of the tournament.
More than 80,000 people are expected to attend the World Cup final between holders Argentina and European champions Spain at the New York-New Jersey stadium on Sunday (July 19).
(Reuters)
