When Spain captain Rodri raised the FIFA World Cup Trophy above his head after his side's 1-0 victory over Argentina in New York New Jersey this summer, it was one of those rare instants that transcends sport and burns itself into collective memory.

The trophy he lifted weighs exactly 6.1kg and stands 36.8cm tall, crafted from 18-karat gold. It is among the most recognised objects on earth — a symbol of glory, pride, and footballing immortality. Yet behind its gleaming surface lies a fascinating world of history, protocol, and even a second, lesser-known version of the cup itself.

Two trophies, one legend

Most fans do not realise there are, in fact, two versions of the FIFA World Cup Trophy. The original resides permanently at the FIFA Museum in Zurich, Switzerland, and only emerges for the most prestigious occasions: the FIFA World Cup Final Draw, the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, and the trophy lift at the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup Final.

The second version is known as the FIFA World Cup Winner's Trophy — and this is the one the champions actually keep. The distinction dates back to 1974, when the original Jules Rimet Trophy was permanently awarded to Brazil after their third world title triumph at the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, prompting FIFA to commission an entirely new trophy. That new trophy was first awarded in 1974 and has served as the symbol of world football supremacy ever since.