For the first time in the tournament's history, the winners of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will lift the trophy alongside championship rings — a tradition borrowed directly from American sport, FIFA has confirmed.

Spain and Argentina meet in Sunday's final at New York New Jersey Stadium, with Spain chasing a second world title and Argentina looking to claim back-to-back triumphs and a fourth overall.

A new symbol of victory

In a formal statement, FIFA described the rings as "a new symbol of triumph" for the winning team. "The tournament winners [will] receive bespoke championship rings, bringing one of the most recognisable American sporting traditions to the global game," the governing body said.

Each ring will feature the FIFA World Cup trophy on one side, with the other side customised to reflect the identity of whichever nation lifts the trophy. Every ring will be individually numbered, custom-fitted, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

The captain and head coach of the winning side — whether from Spain or Argentina — will receive temporary rings immediately after the final, with the full set of 30 personalised rings for players and eligible staff to follow at a later date once sizes are confirmed.

2,026 rings in total

FIFA confirmed that exactly 2,026 rings will be produced for this limited edition run. Those not awarded to the winning squad will be made available as an official licensed product, giving supporters the chance to own what FIFA describes as "a unique piece of FIFA World Cup 2026 history."

The initiative has not been without controversy. Critics point to a pattern of Americanisation at this tournament — from matches being divided into quarters under the guise of hydration breaks, to an extended half-time show inspired by the Super Bowl — moves that many fans feel prioritise commercial appeal over footballing tradition.

Trump and Infantino to present the trophy

Sunday's winners will receive the FIFA World Cup trophy from FIFA president Gianni Infantino and United States president Donald Trump, whose presence at the final was confirmed by the White House. Trump previously presented the trophy at the end of the FIFA Club World Cup at the same stadium last summer.

Whether Trump himself will receive a championship ring has not been confirmed by FIFA.

Championship rings have been awarded since the very first Super Bowl in 1967, when Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs. The New York Jets — whose modern incarnation share the stadium hosting Sunday's World Cup final — went on to claim Super Bowl III just two years later.