The tour’s stops in Oceania will include Tonga and Papua New Guinea, in addition to Solomon Islands.
The trophy will be part of a number of events while in Honiara, including an official visit by state dignitaries and by members of the Solomon Islands national football team, VIP guests and media.
General Manager for Coca-Cola Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Joyonto Chaudhury said as football is well recognized and loved in the region, they want to include Solomon Islands’ football fans by bringing the trophy to the country.
“In this fourth edition of FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, we want to share this unique experience to a broader audience, and in keeping with Coca-Cola and FIFA’s commitment to visit all FIFA member associations, we get to visit new and exciting places like the Solomon Islands,” he said.
Solomon Islands Football Federation President William Lai said the federation is honoured to be part of the effort to bring the trophy to the country.
“This is indeed a historic event for Solomon Islands to be able to host the visit of the FIFA World Cup trophy,” he said. “The trophy symbolizes the spirit of champions, spirit of not giving up and the spirit of collaboration.”
By Lowen Sei
