Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WHAT WILL THE 2026 WORLD CUP AWARDS CEREMONY BE LIKE?
The 2026 World Cup final promises to be an unforgettable celebration, but the highlight will undoubtedly be the awards ceremony. That magical moment when the world pauses to watch the champions lift the most coveted trophy in football. What can we expect from this historic edition? Will there be any changes due to the tournament being co-hosted by three countries? What surprises does FIFA have in store? In this article, we'll tell you all the details planned for the ceremony, from the traditional elements to what might surprise us.
The awards ceremony protocol explained step by step
How is the ceremony organized on the field?
Once the match ends, the field is transformed into a stage. In a matter of minutes, a demountable structure with a raised platform is deployed for the awards ceremony. FIFA has everything timed: from greeting the referees to the presentation of the medals and the trophy. The ceremony begins with the entrance of FIFA officials, invited guests, and heads of state, who present the awards.
Medals are awarded to the referees, the runner-up team, and then the champions. After that comes the main event: the trophy. The captain of the winning team receives the trophy amidst fireworks, a shower of gold confetti, and the cheers of millions. The entire event lasts approximately 20 minutes. Every element is designed for global television: epic shots, overhead angles, and raw emotion. It's a blend of sporting spectacle and diplomatic ceremony. And although it may seem brief, it is the most memorable moment of every World Cup.
What's new in 2026?
An event worthy of three host countries
The 2026 World Cup will be the first hosted by three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Therefore, the awards ceremony could also feature cultural touches from all three nations. Although the final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, there will likely be a shared narrative throughout the event. This could include visuals referencing the three flags, as well as presenters and musical performances representing each culture.
In addition, FIFA is expected to incorporate cutting-edge technology into the broadcast. There is talk of 8K cameras, augmented reality, holograms, and surround sound in the stadiums. There's even talk of a Super Bowl-style drone ceremony, projecting figures in the sky during the trophy presentation. And keep an eye out, because the pre- or post-show musical performances could include global superstars like Bad Bunny, Drake, or The Weeknd.
Cultural tributes to Mexico, the U.S., and Canada
Use of drones and visual projections
8K broadcast and immersive formats
Top live musical artists
New lighting and sound effects
The ceremony won't just be the tournament's closing; it will be a spectacle in itself. A combination of football, pop culture, and continental pride.
Fun Facts from Past Awards Ceremonies
What You Didn't See on Camera… But It Happened
World Cup award ceremonies have had epic, unusual, and even awkward moments. In 1994, Brazil celebrated without the original trophy because FIFA hadn't brought it to the stadium. In 2010, Shakira and "Waka Waka" ignited the excitement before the final. In 2022, "Dibu" Martínez made a controversial gesture with his golden glove, which went viral in seconds. And in 2014, it was unforgettable to see the Germans lift the cup in the middle of the Maracanã, while Messi walked away with his Ballon d'Or, head bowed. There are also some interesting technical details: each medal weighs 125 grams and is made of gold-plated brass. The replicas of the trophy for champions and runners-up are different: only the winner takes the official (on loan) version home to celebrate, and then receives a replica. Furthermore, FIFA keeps the names of all medalists in an official register, even if they didn't play a single minute. Pelé received his third medal... in 2007! In 2018, a fan snuck onto the podium in disguise. Each medal is handmade in Switzerland. In 2022, a 200-speaker sound system was used. The confetti shower is activated by automatic sensors. The awards ceremony is much more than an emotional moment: it is a symbol of the end and the beginning. Because after lifting the trophy, the champion goes straight into history. And that, my friends, is worth its weight in gold.
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