Islamabad, Mar 17 2025: Auckland played host to a historic moment as the FIFA Club World Cup trophy made its way to the city as part of its global tour ahead of the 2025 tournament in the United States.
The visit was marked by a traditional pōwhiri at Takaparawhau by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, honouring Auckland City FC, the Oceania representative at the expanded tournament.
As part of the tour, Mount Roskill Intermediate School welcomed the trophy with a whakatau, a formal Māori ceremony, led by students and local kaumātua.
The event showcased the strong cultural ties between football and the Auckland community, reinforcing values of unity and respect.
Auckland City FC chairperson Ivan Vuksich expressed gratitude for the warm reception, emphasizing the club’s commitment to football development and its strong connection with the Mount Roskill Schools Project.
The initiative aims to establish a modern sports facility, further integrating football into education and providing new opportunities for young athletes.
Students were thrilled to see the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup trophy up close, with many expressing their excitement and admiration.
The moment underscored the global significance of the tournament and its power to inspire the next generation of footballers in New Zealand.
In addition to the school visit, Auckland City FC and SkyCity Auckland hosted a public showcase at the Sky Tower, attracting hundreds of football fans eager to witness the trophy firsthand.
The event celebrated the club’s qualification for the tournament and highlighted the growing passion for football in the region.
As anticipation builds for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Auckland City FC continues to engage with local communities, ensuring that football’s influence extends beyond the pitch and into the heart of the city’s sporting culture.
