FIFA is poised to depart from traditional football customs by awarding World Cup winners' rings to the champions of the final match on Sunday, which features Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium.
The American-style hardware will be presented during a ceremony featuring US President Donald Trump, who is set to deliver the World Cup trophy.
Although winner's rings are a long-standing custom in American sports, particularly with the NFL's Super Bowl winners, this marks a significant shift for FIFA, which has typically awarded traditional gold medals.
Thirty unique rings will be created for the newly crowned world champions. Additionally, 1,996 replica rings will be available for purchase by fans eager to claim a piece of history.
Although the tournament is being co-hosted in North America, President Trump has yet to attend any of the 102 World Cup matches played to date. He notably did not witness any of the United States' games before they were eliminated by Belgium in the round of 16.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had earlier suggested that the president might attend, and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has now officially stated that Trump will be present in the VIP suites for the grand finale.
The close connection between Infantino and Trump has already given rise to the tournament’s most significant controversy off the pitch. Reports indicate that the US President personally called the FIFA president to urge a review of the red card issued to US striker Folarin Balogun earlier in the tournament, a move that raised concerns throughout the sports community.
Additionally, FIFA is monitoring weather conditions closely. A weather alert has been issued for the New York and New Jersey area due to poor air quality stemming from ongoing wildfires in Canada.
Despite the hazy conditions, officials have stated that there is currently no indication that the match at MetLife Stadium will experience any delays or disruptions.
As the football community gears up to name its next champion, Sunday’s final is set to be a unique blend of top-tier international sport and dynamic American entertainment.