As part of the fifth FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup™ trophy landed in Pakistan for the first time in four years. The trophy was accompanied by a delegation of senior FIFA personnel as well as Former FIFA World Cup™ winner and legendary footballer, Christian Karembeu. The purpose of this trophy tour by FIFA was to include all FIFA partner nations before the World Cup officially kicks off in Qatar.
The Trophy, and the delegation, were received by a VIP panel consisting of senior Coca-Cola leadership, Hajra Khan, Captain of Pakistan’s National Women’s Football Team, and prominent media personalities. After a warm welcome at the airport, the delegation and trophy were escorted to a hotel in Lahore.
An event honouring the trophy’s arrival in Pakistan was hosted by Hajra Khan and was attended by the country’s leading sportspersons, celebrities, dignitaries, ministers of state, and digital media opinion leaders.
The people of Pakistan have always enjoyed a rich sports culture, as well as a storied athletic history. The country is responsible for producing over 40 million footballs a year. The manufacturing of sporting goods contributes significantly to Pakistan’s economy. A documentary highlighting football in Pakistan was also screened during the event to showcase both the love for the game and its significance to our local industries.
Ahmad Hanif Orakzai, Vice President, Pakistan Sports Board was the chief guest for the event. He addressed the audience by talking about the government's continued efforts toward bringing football to the mainstream. He went on to discuss how Pakistan could be turned into a country that strives to provide more opportunities in the field of sports to the country’s youth. At the end of his address, he thanked the FIFA delegation and presented them with a locally made football painted with iconic traditional truck art as a token of appreciation.
“The reason for our strong focus on sports infrastructure is because we know the best formula for our future is to empower the youth of Pakistan. Thanks to Coca-Cola we now have a strong partner in turning this dream into a reality.”, he stated.
Another treat for local football fans was the presence of former French national football team member and FIFA World Cup winner, Christian Karembeu. He could be seen on the stage next to the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy, allowing Pakistani fans to see the most revered prize in football up close, along with a man who has reached the pinnacle of the sport itself. He spoke to everyone in attendance, expressing his gratitude for being given this opportunity, and how excited he was to be part of an initiative that aimed to inspire Pakistan’s youth.
“I am honestly amazed to see the enthusiasm of Pakistani football fans. It has been amazing to hear these stories from young footballers from all these diverse communities, and I love the fact that they all have positive outlooks on their journeys. The future of Pakistani sports is definitely very bright,” said the former World Cup champion.
Fahad Ashraf, Vice President, Coca-Cola Pakistan and Afghanistan Region, also spoke to those gathered, highlighting the importance of sports, community, and the spirit of unity.
“Sports brings communities and nations together and at Coca-Cola, we are delighted to champion this spirit of unity,” he said.
With this more serious sequence of events of the day wrapped up, an even bigger crowd gathered to enjoy a concert hosted by the infamous Anoushey Ashraf and Dino Ali. There were musical performances by Coke Studio Season 14’s star performers Talal Qureshi, Shae Gill, Hasan Raheem, and Abdullah Siddiqui that had the crowd on their feet.
Christian Karembeu took the stage one last time before the curtains closed on the day’s events. The legendary footballer unveiled the trophy amidst confetti and cold fire as cheers from the crowd echoed around the venue.
Pakistan is one of 51 countries where this year’s tour is taking place, bringing Coca-Cola and FIFA one step closer to visiting all 211 Football Nations by 2030. #BelievingInMagic