World Cup Trophy arrives in South Africa, received by President Ramaphosa

The FIFA World Cup trophy officially touched down in Johannesburg on Friday, marking a major highlight in South Africa’s football calendar.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, joined by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, formally received the iconic trophy during a ceremony attended by dignitaries, media and invited guests.

The trophy’s arrival forms part of Coca-Cola’s global World Cup Trophy Tour, which is travelling through several continents ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, Canada and the United States. South Africa is one of the flagship stops on the African leg of the tour.

As part of the nationwide celebrations, South Africa will host a series of high‑profile events from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Organisers have not yet confirmed the full list of guests, but several international football legends are expected to participate in the weekend festivities.

PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA TO RECEIVE FIFA WORLD CUP ORIGINAL TROPHY

By Thulani Ndaba

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 30 January 2026, receive the FIFA World Cup™ Original Trophy during the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The prestigious… pic.twitter.com/GGWSBE0CaW

— Thulani Ndaba (@tndaba) January 29, 2026

We can’t boycott World Cup

Speaking to SABC Sport, McKenzie confirmed both his and the President’s involvement, while firmly dismissing calls for South Africa to boycott the global showpiece.

“I, together with the president of South Africa, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, have received the World Cup trophy today. We are encouraging everyone to follow the journey of our players who worked so hard to qualify,” McKenzie said.

“A lot of people are calling for us to boycott the World Cup – that is absolute rubbish. We will not be boycotting. Siyaya eMexico, Siyaya eCanada, Siyaya eAmerica. If you don’t want to watch, switch off your television.”

The next stop for World Cup trophy

A gala dinner will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre this evening, featuring invited dignitaries and several former Bafana Bafana stars.

The trophy will then travel to Cape Town, where fans will be given the chance to view and take photos with it. As per FIFA protocol, only President Ramaphosa is authorised to physically touch the trophy.

South Africa’s national team has been drawn in Group A for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the winner of the European play-off scheduled for March.