The World Cup is the most prestigious and desired trophy. But few people know that the trophy was born and is made in Italy, by GDE Bertoni: a Milanese company that in the early 1970s won the competition held by FIFA to make the World Cup in which 52 companies from around the world were invited to participate.

The cup is 36.8 centimeters high and weighs 6 kilograms and 175 grams. Composed of an alloy made of 75 percent gold and 25 percent silver. Covered with a 24-carat gold foil. It is kept in Zurich at the FIFA museum. Every four years it is loaned to the national team that wins the World Cup, which is required to return it. Twelve, between 1974 and today, have gone to the world champion national teams. One will be assigned today. Another is already set for the 2026 World Cup, to be played in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

For national teams that win in the World Cup, an almost identical replica is made of 24-karat gold-plated brass, on the base of which is engraved the name of the country that won. Its face value is that of gold, so you take the weight of the gold and multiply it by its price. As of today it could be around 200, 250,000 euros. However, the Cup has an immense, priceless value; it is a bit like having the Mona Lisa in your home.

It all came about after the Mexico '70 final, Brazil Italy 4-3. The Brazilians won their third World Cup and by regulation can keep the old Jules Rimet Cup forever. FIFA has to come up with something new. A contest is held. The winning sketch is by GDE Bertoni art director Silvio Cazzaniga: "Two athletes emerging from the mass in rustic form, representing fatigue. Two players transformed into giants by victory, but not for this reason super-men. Two heroes who, exulting, stretch the world in their arms. A symbol of peace and brotherhood." Small changes were made later because initially there were no victory angels but two goalkeepers and the world was not a world but a ball.

Today GDE Bertoni also produces the Champions League and many other less famous awards, medals and trophies.

After each award, original and copy return to Paderno Dugnano for restoration. Each time, Bertoni craftsmen fix the dents, redo the galvanic bath in the gold basin, and engrave the name of the new winner under the base. The cup returns home on an armored truck, protected by armed security guards. Details of the journey are top secret.