The World Cup trophy was stolen from England. This notable incident occurred in March 1966, just months before England's historic victory in the tournament.
The trophy, known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, was on display in Westminster, London, when it was taken. The theft created a significant stir, especially as the nation was preparing to host the prestigious football event. The responsibility for its safekeeping fell to the Football Association, who subsequently lost the valuable trophy.
The Theft of the Jules Rimet Trophy
The disappearance of the World Cup trophy caused widespread alarm and an intensive search effort. While the theft was a serious event, its subsequent recovery often lends a farcical element to the full story, famously involving a dog named Pickles.
- Date of Incident: March 1966
- Location: England (specifically, Westminster, London)
- Trophy: Jules Rimet Trophy
- Organization Responsible: The Football Association
The return of the trophy ensured that the 1966 World Cup proceeded with the authentic prize. This event remains a unique chapter in the history of the World Cup, highlighting a moment of vulnerability for the iconic golden statuette.
Summary Table of the Incident:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country | England |
| Year | 1966 |
| Trophy | Jules Rimet Trophy |
| Lost By | The Football Association |
The incident underscores the immense value and significance placed on the World Cup trophy, not just as a sporting prize, but as a global symbol of footballing excellence.
