As the 2026 World Cup approaches, a local artisan in Rio de Janeiro has turned his workshop into a hub of football fever, meticulously crafting life-sized replicas of the iconic FIFA World Cup trophy. For Jose Arnaldo, a 62-year-old sculptor, the project is more than just a business—it is an expression of national hope.
Highlights of the Story:
- Artistic Precision: Working out of his modest studio in the northern district of Rio, Arnaldo uses a combination of resin, plaster, and gold-colored automotive paint to recreate the famous trophy. He prides himself on capturing the intricate details of the two human figures holding up the Earth, making his replicas highly sought after by local bars, collectors, and fan clubs.
- The “Hexa” Dream: Like millions of his compatriots, Arnaldo is fueled by the desire to see the Brazilian national team, the Seleção, win their sixth world title. Brazil has not hoisted the real trophy since 2002, and the artisan believes that the 2026 tournament—hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada—is the perfect stage for their comeback.
- A Symbol of Hope: Arnaldo began making the replicas as a hobby during the 2014 tournament held in Brazil. Since then, his work has become a local tradition. He notes that while his trophies are “fakes,” the passion they ignite in people who hold them is very real.
Looking Ahead to 2026: The artisan plans to produce over 100 trophies in the coming months. He maintains a superstitious ritual of keeping one “master” replica in his window, which he believes brings good luck to the team. Arnaldo says his greatest wish is for his business to be “ruined” by the celebration of a real victory, hoping that by July 2026, his replicas will be overshadowed by the genuine gold arriving in Brasília.