The FIFA World Cup trophy made an appearance in Ryadh recently as part of a special event held by the global payments technology company Visa. The showcase, that was held at the Four Season’s Hotel in the city, brought together Visa’s partners, clients and media personalities to mark the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup Winner’s Trophy.
Visa is the exclusive payment services partner of FIFA through 2022. The worldwide partnership gives Visa global marketing and activation rights to all FIFA events including the FIFA World Cup. The links between FIFA and Visa allow the world’s leading payment brand to deliver tangible brand affinity, loyalty, equity and preference, via the world’s most popular sport, football.
Karim Beg, head of marketing — MENA, Visa, said: “Starting with this year’s FIFA Confederations Cup Russia 2017, we are excited to celebrate the love of football with the world. With only a few months to go until the next tournament, this event is an exciting opportunity for us to give Saudi fans an exclusive viewing of the trophy of dreams.”
“Given the passion for football in the region and as part of our long-term strategy of sponsoring world-class sporting events and connecting clients, partners and people across borders, we felt the need to bring the 2018 FIFA World Cup Winner’s Trophy to Riyadh,” added Beg.
During the event, the 2018 FIFA World Cup Winner’s Trophy was displayed on a podium offering guests an opportunity to have their pictures taken with the world’s most recognized sports trophy.
Visa is one of seven FIFA partners with global rights to a broad range of FIFA activities, including the FIFA Confederations Cup 2017 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup kicks off in June next year with a total of 64 matches will be played in 12 venues located in 11 cities. The final will take place on July 15 in Moscow at the Luzhniki Stadium. Visa cardholders will have the chance to benefit from exclusive privileges for the duration of the competition.
FIFA fans from Abu Dhabi and Dubai also had a chance to share a special moment with the world-famous trophy, when Visa hosted events in these football-loving cities over the past month for cardholders and clients.

Source: Arab News