Guwahati: The city played host to the Coca-Cola FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour on Sunday, drawing an impressive crowd of over 10,000 football enthusiasts at Barsapara Stadium.
The event offered fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy from close quarters and capture photographs with it. Adding to the excitement, former Brazilian footballer and World Cup champion Gilberto Silva attended the programme and engaged with the fans.
India is one of only 30 countries selected for the prestigious Trophy Tour, chosen from more than 200 nations where football is played worldwide.
Even as the event coincided with Magh Bihu festivities, organisers noted an enthusiastic turnout, underlining the strong football legacy of Assam and the Northeast region.
Addressing the audience, Greishma Singh, Vice President (Marketing), Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, described the World Cup Trophy as a symbol of dreams, determination and excellence. She added that the India leg of the tour aimed to inspire young football lovers to chase their sporting ambitions.
Shantanu Gangane, Senior Director, Integrated Marketing Experience, Coca-Cola India, said the return of the trophy to India after 12 years marked an important milestone and showcased the nation’s expanding presence in the global sports arena.
Later, Gilberto Silva applauded the passion of Indian fans, stating that the enthusiasm and warmth he experienced in Guwahati reflected the country’s deep emotional bond with football.
According to Coca-Cola officials, the Trophy Tour is part of their larger initiative to strengthen football culture in India through interactive fan experiences and international sporting partnerships.
FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour