FIFA World Cup winners to receive US-style championship rings

FIFA World Cup winners to receive US-style championship rings signals a bigger push to Americanize presentation in soccer’s flagship competition. FIFA said the winners of Sunday’s final between Spain and Argentina will receive championship rings in addition to the trophy and gold medals. Thirty bespoke rings will be presented to the winning team following the match at New York New Jersey Stadium, while the captain and head coach receive temporary versions immediately after the final. The rings will be customized with the champions’ identity, then individually fitted and presented later. FIFA also disclosed a limited edition of 2,026 individually numbered pieces: 1,996 for sale to fans worldwide as officially licensed products, and 30 for the squad. The move follows other tournament changes, including a halftime entertainment show and mandatory hydration breaks criticized as disruptions and additional tactical pauses.