Hola, copa! Mexico City welcomes World Cup Trophy as FIFA kicks off 38-stop North America tour

"The FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy arrived in Mexico City on Friday, kicking off its 38-stop North American tour, which will visit all host cities ahead of the tournament. Footage shows the trophy touching down at Felipe Angeles International Airport, where former Argentine footballer Roberto Ayala raised the cup at an official presentation ceremony led by Mexico's Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Juan Ramon de la Fuente. "This is a trinational effort that will allow us to strengthen the idea that North America knows how to work together, in a coordinated manner across different areas, including the organization of the most important sporting event," the foreign minister stated. He noted that the international tournament will generate 'unique experiences' for Mexico's families, particularly for the youth and disabled people. "Let no one feel that the celebration was out of reach. That is the goal: that the celebration belongs to everyone. That is the human dimension of the World Cup and it is what we want to highlight, with that vision of State," de la Fuente added. "The trophy symbolises an opportunity to bring global symbols closer to all communities, to inspire young people, and to remember that sport, especially football, has the ability to unite us far beyond any differences we may have," he continued. President of Coca-Cola Mexico Louis Balata, FIFA Executive Director in Mexico Jurgen Mainka, as well as Gabriela Cueva, Mexico Representative for the World Cup, also attended the event. The FIFA trophy tour is sponsored by Coca-Cola and features a 26-day journey across the country, including stops in Guadalajara, Leon, Veracruz, Chihuahua, Queretaro, Monterrey, Puebla and Merida. After Mexico, the trophy will begin its tour of around 28 cities in the United States and Canada, allowing thousands of fans to see up close the highest prize in international football made of solid gold."