The FIFA World Cup is the penultimate prize for any footballer. Played once every 4 years, it is the sporting event of the globe. 2 billion people tune in to watch 32 countries battle it out for a chance to be crowned champions of world football. France is currently the reigning champion, having defeated Croatia in the finals in 2018.
The tournament has had an illustrious history and has immortalized many teams, players, and nations in its lore – the most recent being France.
Important Facts
Year Founded: 1939
Number of Teams: 32
Most Sucessful Team: Brazil (5x Champions)
Current Champion: France
Website: Fifa World Cup
The World Cup is a tournament that makes dreams, but also breaks hearts. The fact that it is played once every 4 years makes it that much more special. Moreso when you win on your home soil in front of the entire world. Six of the eight champions have won one of their titles while playing in their homeland. They are the following:
- England (1966)
- Uruguay (1930)
- Argentina (1978)
- Italy (1934)
- France (1998)
- Germany (1974)
The Trophy
The original World Cup trophy was named after FIFA president Jules Rimet. He set up the first official tournament and so the trophy was named the Jules Rimet trophy until 1970.
In 1970, after winning their 3rd world cup, Brazil was entitled to keep the trophy permanently. However, the story ends badly as thieves eventually stole the trophy, never to be returned or found. They suspected it was melted down.
Exciting Football 