As part of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour™ by Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup™ trophy touched down in Lahore accompanied by a delegation that included notable FIFA personnel as well as former FIFA World Cup™ winner and legendary footballer, Christian Karembeu. The initiative under the hashtag #BelievingIsMagic is aimed at promoting inclusivity and visibility of all FIFA partner nations ahead of the final games in Qatar.

Hajra Khan, Captain of Pakistan Women’s National Football Team, awaited alongside a panel of senior Coca-Cola leadership for the FIFA delegation to touch down at the airfield. After receiving a warm welcome to the country, the delegation was escorted to the trophy’s arrival event in Lahore, hosted by Hajra Khan and attended by several of Pakistan’s leading sportspersons, celebrities, dignitaries, ministers of state, and digital media opinion leaders in attendance.

The people of Pakistan have always enjoyed a rich sports culture, as well as a storied athletic history. The country is responsible for producing over 40 million footballs a year, and the manufacturing of sporting goods contributes significantly to Pakistan’s economy. A documentary highlighting football in Pakistan was screened during the event to shine a light on the country’s contributions to football.

RELATED STORIES

Ahmad Hanif Orakzai, Vice President, Pakistan Sports Board, was the chief guest for the trophy arrival event. He spoke about the government’s ongoing and upcoming efforts to bring football to the mainstream. The Vice President went on to speak about transforming Pakistan into a country that celebrates and facilitates sports at all levels. He extended his heartfelt thanks to the FIFA delegation and presented them with a locally made football as a token of the country’s appreciation.

“The reason for our strong focus on sports infrastructure is because we know the best formula for our future is to empower the youth of Pakistan. Thanks to Coca-Cola, we now have a strong partner in turning this dream into a reality,” he said.

During the course of the event, Pakistan’s leading youth athletes were brought to attention and appreciated for their contributions to the country.

Former FIFA World Cup™ winner and legendary footballer, Christian Karembeu, was the star of the show in more ways than one. He stood next to the trophy, providing Pakistani fans an opportunity to see a legend of the game next to football’s most coveted prize. He expressed his gratitude at being given this amazing opportunity to be part of an initiative that aimed to inspire Pakistan’s youth.

“I am honestly amazed to see the enthusiasm of Pakistani football fans. It has been amazing to hear these stories from young footballers from all these diverse communities, and I love the fact that they all have positive outlooks on their respective journeys. The future of Pakistani sports is definitely bright,” said the legendary footballer.

“Sports brings communities and nations together and at Coca-Cola, we are delighted to champion this spirit of unity,” said Fahad Ashraf, Vice President, Coca-Cola Pakistan and Afghanistan Region, in his address to those gathered.

As the sun set on the day’s proceedings, attendees enjoyed musical performances in an event hosted by the renowned Anoushey Ashraf and Dino Ali. The concert was headlined by big-name performers like Talal Qureshi, Shae Gill, Hasan Raheem, and Abdullah Siddiqui.

Christian Karembeu was once again in the limelight at the grand finale as he unveiled the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy in spectacular fashion. And that’s how the night ended; the crowd cheering wildly for the trophy and the legendary footballer holding it, against a backdrop of colourful confetti and flashes of cold fire.

Pakistan is one of the 51 countries where this year’s tour is taking place, bringing Coca-Cola and FIFA one step closer to visiting all 211 Football Nations by 2030. #BelievingInMagic

This is a sponsored article.