World Cup-winning legends Andres Iniesta and Mario Kempes shared the spotlight before Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final as they lifted the trophy ahead of the showdown between Spain and Argentina in New Jersey.
The pre-match ceremony began with tennis star Carlos Alcaraz and South Korean actor Jung Ho-yeon carrying the famous Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk onto the pitch before unveiling football’s biggest prize.
Iniesta and Kempes then stepped forward to present the trophy, representing the two nations competing for the 2026 World Cup title.
Iniesta remains one of Spain’s greatest footballers after scoring the extra-time winner against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final, securing La Roja’s only world title.
Kempes holds a similarly special place in Argentina’s football history. The former striker inspired La Albiceleste to their first World Cup triumph in 1978 and finished as the tournament’s leading scorer.
FIFA’s decision to invite the two former champions highlighted the history shared by the finalists before the latest chapter in their World Cup journeys unfolded.
The ceremony also showcased the iconic Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk, continuing the tournament tradition of presenting the World Cup trophy in its custom-made case before the final.
With two World Cup-winning icons holding the famous trophy aloft, the stage was set for Spain and Argentina to battle for football’s biggest prize.
