Johannesburg erupted in celebration as the FIFA Club World Cup trophy made its highly anticipated first stop in Africa. The dazzling 10-kg gold-plated shield, accompanied by FIFA legend Alessandro Nesta, was warmly received in South Africa, marking a momentous occasion for African football.

The prestigious trophy tour kicked off in Mamelodi, the birthplace of South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns, where students at Mamelodi High School welcomed it with excitement and song. Sundowns players, including captain Themba Zwane and young star Siyabonga Mabena, joined club legends like Hlompho Kekana and Daniel Mudau in celebrating the historic moment.

From there, the trophy made its way to the Tshwane Mayor’s office before concluding its South African tour at Sammy Marks Square, where fans had the rare opportunity to take photos with the trophy and football greats.

Sundowns, nicknamed “The Brazilians,” will compete in Group F against Brazil’s Fluminense, Germany’s Borussia Dortmund, and South Korea’s Ulsan in the expanded Club World Cup, set for June 14 to July 13, 2025, in the United States.

Next, the trophy will head to Egypt, home of reigning African champions Al Ahly, before stopping in Tunisia to visit four-time African champions Esperance de Tunis. The final leg of its African journey will take place in Morocco, where Wydad Athletic Club will host the iconic prize.

This global tour will see the trophy visit each of the 32 participating clubs, building anticipation for the biggest edition of the FIFA Club World Cup yet.