The FIFA World Cup trophy has arrived in downtown Toronto for a promotional event as anticipation and preparations mount across the city ahead of the tournament.
The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, a promotional event hosted by Coca-Cola and partners, held an event Monday afternoon at Nathan Phillips Square.
In attendance was Mayor Olivia Chow, a number of city councillors, city staff, FIFA representatives, Coca-Cola representatives and hundreds of fans.
In a speech, Chow thanked city staff, volunteers and FIFA partners for Toronto’s inclusion in and buildup to the event.
“Toronto is truly proud to be a part of this truly historic global moment,” said Chow.
“Today is also a celebration of how sports can bring people together, no matter where you are from, no matter what language you speak or what team you are cheering for. The beautiful game has a unique power to unite all of us.”
Also in attendance was Alessandro Nesta, who played for Italy and won the World Cup in 2006.
The event is part of a global FIFA-Coca-Cola campaign stopping in cities around the world, giving fans the chance to see the trophy in person.
The trophy will remain at Nathan Phillips Square today for the next two days.
Fans with tickets will have access to view the trophy between 3 and 6 p.m. today and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday.
The event is already fully booked, though tickets were free at the time of release.
“To support a safe and positive experience for all attendees, there will be no on-site or walk-up attendance,” FIFA officials said in a statement.
Toronto will host six matches during the tournament.
The first game in Toronto will take place June 12, when Team Canada takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Last week, Prime Minister Mark Carney hoisted the trophy as the tour made a stop in Ottawa ahead of the games.
