In the world of sports, trophies represent the pinnacle of achievement, embodying not just victory but prestige, history, and immense value. While the glory of winning is priceless, some trophies themselves are worth millions of dollars, crafted from precious metals and adorned with intricate designs. From global football championships to iconic sporting events, these trophies are coveted not only for their symbolic significance but also for their extraordinary material worth. Here are the six most expensive trophies in the world, primarily from sports, ranked by their estimated value and material worth:
FIFA World Cup Trophy (Football) – $20 million
- Height: 37 cm, Weight: 6 kg
- Made from 18-carat gold mounted on malachite
The most prestigious and valuable sporting trophy globally, symbolizing the pinnacle of international football success. The original Jules Rimet Trophy was replaced in 1974 by this design featuring two human figures holding up the Earth. The trophy has a rich history including thefts and recoveries. The winning teams receive a gold-plated replica, while the original trophy is priceless.
Woodlawn Vase (Horse Racing) – $2.5 million
- Height: 91 cm, Weight: 13 kg
- Made from solid sterling silver
Awarded annually to the winner of the Preakness Stakes, part of the US Triple Crown. Created by Tiffany & Co. in 1860, it has a colorful history including being buried during the Civil War to prevent it from being melted down. The original is kept safely in a museum and insured for over $2.5 million.
Borg-Warner Trophy (Motorsport) – $1.3 million
- Height: 162.5 cm, Weight: 45 kg
- Made from hollow sterling silver
. Awarded to the winner of the Indianapolis 500 since 1936, it is one of the largest trophies in sport and features sculptured images of each winner added annually. The trophy is hollow and weighs 45 kg, with a replica given to winners since 1988.
FA Cup (Football) – Around $1 million to $1.8 million
- Height: 61.5 cm, Weight: 6.3 kg
- Made from solid sterling silver
The oldest association football competition trophy, first awarded in 1872. The current version is the fifth iteration, sturdier than previous ones. It has significant historical and cultural value in English football, with a material worth estimated around $1 million to $1.18 million.
UEFA Europa League Trophy (Football) – $4.5 million
- Estimated value based on recent rankings
- A prestigious European club competition trophy, highly valued for its craftsmanship and symbolic importance in football.
Copa Libertadores Trophy (Football) – $4.5 million
- Valued as one of the most expensive football trophies in South America
- Awarded to the champion of the premier club competition in South America, reflecting high craftsmanship and cultural importance.
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Other notable mentions include the UEFA Champions League trophy (worth around $15,000 to $20,000 in materials) and the La Liga trophy (around $600,000), but these are less valuable than the above.
In summary, the six most expensive trophies worldwide are:
Trophy | Sport | Estimated Value (USD) | Material | Notes |
FIFA World Cup Trophy | Football | $20 million | 18-carat gold, malachite | Most prestigious, global football trophy |
Woodlawn Vase | Horse Racing | $2.5 million | Solid sterling silver | Preakness Stakes trophy, historic |
Borg-Warner Trophy | Motorsport | $1.3 million | Hollow sterling silver | Indianapolis 500 winner’s trophy |
FA Cup Trophy | Football | ~$1 million | Solid sterling silver | Oldest football cup, English football icon |
Copa Libertadores Trophy | Football | $8.5 million | Precious metals | South American club championship |
UEFA Europa League Trophy | Football | $4.5 million | Precious metal | European club competition trophy |
These trophies combine exceptional craftsmanship, precious materials, and immense cultural and historical significance, making them the most valuable trophies in the world.