The World Cup is the most distinguished soccer event worldwide as well as the most watched competition overcoming even the Olympic Games; in this competition, only 32 teams belonging to FIFA will have the honor of playing trying to take home the long-awaited World Cup. This event only happens once every four years (except in 1942 and 1946 because the Second World War) and this year from June 14 we can enjoy the World Cup with Russia as the host country.
Only eight countries have won the tournament, with Brazil in the top of the list, nation who has five titles, Germany which is the current champion (2014's winners) and has four and Italy with four titles as well. Without a doubt, this World Cup promises to be something huge and extraordinary but before it starts, you need to know some curious facts about it:
FIFA means Fédération Internationale de Football Association.
Currently, only 32 teams qualify for the tournament but in 2026 the number will increase to 48.
The first World Cup was in Uruguay in 1930 and the winning team was the host country.
Indonesia has played the least number of matches (one, in 1938).
The first World Cup held in Uruguay had only 13 countries participating.
To select the 32 countries there is a pre-selection called "World Cup Finals" and it happens during three years prior to the tournament.
The first trophy named Jules Rimet trophy was stolen and never recovered, people have assumed that it was melted down by the thieves.
The World Cup increases birth rates as well as heart attacks.
On the final ceremony the trophy they give to the team we watch on TV is not the real trophy the team is awarded, once the ceremony ends, they award the winning team with a replica of the trophy and gold medals.
Another award FIFA give is: The Golden Ball to the most outstanding player (Lionel Messi, 2014's winner); The Golden Boot to the top goal scorer (James Rodriguez, 2014's winner); The Golden Glove to the best goalkeeper of the tournament (Manuel Neuer, 2014's winner); The Best Young Player; The FIFA fair play trophy to the team whose games were clean; and The Most Entertaining Team which is voted by the public.
This is the first time with Russia as the host country.
The theme of this year tournament is inspired by dreams and the outer space
The official mascot is a wolf, its name is "Wolf Zabivaka" and it was chosen by online voting.
The official song is Colors, Maluma x Jason Derulo.
City Volunteer is a program to everyone who wants to help in the hosting and managing of the World Cup, about 20 thousand people have received special training for this magic event.
I hope you enjoyed the list. Tell me in the comments what is your favorite team 🇧🇷 and who you do think will win… Thank you for reading me, bye 👋