Hundreds of fans from around the world gathered at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto on Monday to see the 18-karat solid gold World Cup trophy, showcasing the city's multiculturalism ahead of this summer's tournament.
Former Italian defender Alessandro Nesta, a 2006 World Cup champion, unveiled the trophy as part of its global tour before the June 11 kickoff. Fans waved flags from Colombia, Germany, Croatia, and Canada, illustrating the diverse communities that will support the 48-nation tournament.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow called soccer "the beautiful game" and highlighted its power to unite people. Toronto will host six matches involving teams from Africa, Central America, and Europe.
Canada, where immigrants made up 23% of the population in 2021 and more than half of Toronto's residents are foreign-born, offers a home-field advantage for many nations.
Jai King-Green, a council member from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, noted that Indigenous performers will participate in Canada's opening match on June 12 against Bosnia & Herzegovina.
With nearly one million registered soccer players in Canada, the World Cup is expected to boost the sport further, particularly through new mini pitches in Toronto. Chow emphasized that the tournament's legacy will extend beyond the matches, inspiring young people and strengthening communities.