World Cup excitement is building in Nova Scotia as the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour made a stop in Halifax Friday morning.
The original FIFA World Cup trophy arrived at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 ahead of a public fan festival later in the day at the Halifax Soccer Centre.
Organizers say outside of the FIFA World Cup tournament itself, the trophy rarely leaves the FIFA Museum in Zurich, Switzerland, making the Canadian tour a rare opportunity for fans to see the iconic trophy in person.
Michelle McKenzie, interim CEO of the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, said hosting the trophy at the museum carried special meaning.
“We think that’s very poignant to be welcoming the cup here at the museum in a facility that celebrates and welcomes people to Canada as we get ready to welcome so many people to Canada for the FIFA World Cup,” McKenzie said.
Sandra Gage with FIFA Canada said the tournament is expected to help grow the sport across the country and inspire a new generation of players and fans.
“Canada is a football country,” she said.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab called the World Cup a “once in a generation opportunity” and said the tournament can inspire young people across Canada.
“Moments like this can spark a lifelong love of sport,” Diab said.
Crowds gather at Pier 21 in Halifax awaiting the unveiling of the FIFA World Cup Trophy during the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour stop on Saturday. PHOTO: EVAN TAYLOR/ACADIA NEWS
Nova Scotia Communities Minister Dave Ritcey pointed to the growing popularity of soccer in the province, specifically mentioning Nova Scotia soccer star Jacob Shaffelburg.
“Soccer is a growing sport in Nova Scotia,” Ritcey said.
Ritcey also suggested Shaffelburg could represent Canada at the World Cup, though Canada Soccer has not yet announced its final roster for the tournament. The roster is expected to be revealed May 29.
Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore said the event highlights Halifax’s growing connection to the international soccer community.
“Today is about much more than a trophy,” Fillmore said. “It’s about excitement. It’s about pride. It’s about the connection that sports creates across communities.”
Canada will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico.
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