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WILL THERE BE MEDALS FOR THE 2026 WORLD CUP FINALISTS?

Have you ever wondered if the World Cup finalists receive medals like at the Olympics? Well, yes, and not only them. At every World Cup, the champions, runners-up, and third-place finishers all receive official FIFA medals. In this article, we'll tell you how many medals are awarded, what they look like, who makes them, and some interesting facts you probably didn't know. We'll also analyze which countries have won the most medals in the tournament's history and what the awards ceremony might look like at the 2026 World Cup, the biggest ever. Get ready for a journey through the history, design, and symbolic value of one of the most coveted prizes in the beautiful game.

How medals are awarded at the World Cup


The awards ceremony ritual in detail


At every World Cup final, there's a ceremony that every football fan eagerly anticipates: the presentation of the trophy, of course, but also the awarding of medals. FIFA awards gold medals to the champion, silver to the runner-up, and bronze to the team that wins the third-place match. This tradition formally began in 1974, although symbolic awards were given before then.


Each finalist team receives 40 medals: enough for players, coaching staff, and support staff. The medals are not mere souvenirs; they are made of high-quality metals and engraved with the year, the host country, and the FIFA logo. The ceremony takes place on a central stage, immediately after the final whistle. The moment is epic: tears, hugs, fireworks, and millions of photos.


  • The medals are awarded by FIFA and host country officials.

  • Each finalist federation receives 40 medals.

  • Since 1994, the ceremony has been held on special podiums.

  • The gold medals are not 100% gold; they are plated.

  • Medals are also awarded to fourth place (without a match or ceremony).


Curiosities and anecdotes about the medals


Stories worth their weight in gold


World Cup medals have their own legends. Did you know that the gold medal Zidane lifted in 1998 was sold at auction for more than 100,000 euros? Or that some players have lost them during celebrations, as happened with Brazilian Gilberto Silva in 2002, who left his in the locker room bathroom. There are also those who give them to family members or even fans as a gesture of gratitude.


In Qatar 2022, FIFA innovated with medals that had a special texture and a more modern engraving. Some national teams even have copies made for internal use. And if a player hasn't played a single minute, they still receive a medal if they're registered on the official roster.


  • Zidane auctioned his 1998 medal for charity

  • In 2006, Pirlo had his framed with grass from the Berlin stadium

  • Germany 2014 designed special cases for their medals

  • In South Africa 2010, several Spaniards melted down replicas of their medals into jewelry

  • Medals cannot be legally sold while an active player


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

What the 2026 Awards Ceremony Will Be Like


New Formats, Same Pride


The 2026 World Cup will be unique: three host countries (USA, Mexico, and Canada), 48 teams, 104 matches... and an awards ceremony that promises to be gigantic. Although FIFA has not yet revealed all the details, the medal ceremony is expected to maintain its usual structure but with technological touches: LED lighting, 360° screens, and mobile stages. The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with a capacity of over 80,000 people. Imagine the spectacle!


In addition to the medals, individual awards will still be given out: Golden Ball, Golden Boot, Golden Glove, and Young Player Award. Plaques will also be presented to the participating federations. FIFA is even considering using artificial intelligence to improve the logistics of the ceremony. What won't change is the excitement of seeing the champion lift the trophy and receive the medal. That moment is priceless… and historic.


  • The ceremony will be in New Jersey on July 19, 2026

  • The visual production is expected to be the biggest in FIFA history

  • Each finalist player will receive their medal on stage

  • There will be commemorative versions at each host venue

  • FIFA plans to broadcast the ceremony in 8K and with augmented reality


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