FIFA World Cup trophy tours Muscat
Thousands of football enthusiasts turned up to see the FIFA World Cup Trophy at Royal Opera House Muscat on Friday evening. This is the first time ever that the 14-inch trophy was in Oman as part of its tour before the World Cup tournament kickstarts in Qatar in November.
Enthusiasts - from all walks of life, including sportsmen, businessmen, children and women - had exclusive photo opportunities with the iconic trophy, besides receiving key chains of the to come face-to-face with this trophy is overwhelming. It is the very same object that has been touched and kissed by giants like Diego Maradona, Ricardo Kaka and Pele. I am very happy and excited to see the World Cup Trophy and take photos with it.”
According to Ali Khalfan al Abri, a private sector employee, the cup’s visit to Oman reflects opportunities in tourism in the sultanate. “I hope the concerned authorities take advantage of this opportunity to promote Oman through this trophy. To be so close to this spectacular cup, which has a massive history of human passion, is overpowering.”
Earlier on Friday morning, a private plane arrived with the World Cup trophy carried by former Brazilian player Gilberto Silva. The delegation was received by H E Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidi, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat, and Ali al Habsi, former Oman goalkeeper.
On the occasion, Sheikh Salam al Wahaibi, chairman of Oman Football Association, said, “It is a dream for the youth of Oman to see the World Cup trophy. It’ll motivate them and renew their drive for the game.”