Top 10 Most Expensive Trophies in Football

Whether it's a club or a national side, a football team is made up of 11 starting players and typically six or seven substitutes—names that flash across the television screens of millions. Alongside them, the manager's name and the team’s crest proudly light up, capturing the attention of fans worldwide.

But what are these 22 players on the pitch really fighting for with every sprint, tackle, and goal? Are they the only key figures in a team’s success? And once their careers—often spanning 18 to 20 years—come to an end, what defines their value? How is their legacy measured?

The answer to all these questions lies in three powerful words: Trophies, Titles, Cups.
Because in the end, a sportsperson is remembered not just for their talent, but for their achievements, contributions, and the silverware they helped bring home.

In this article, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 most expensive trophies in the world of football—symbols of glory that every player dreams of lifting.

10. English Premier League Trophy

The English Premier League is one of the most historic and prestigious football leagues in the world, with a legacy that has shaped European and UK football for decades. Over the years, countless legendary players have graced its pitches, all chasing the coveted Premier League trophy—a symbol of greatness that has etched many teams into football history.

The trophy itself is crafted from silver, gilded silver, malachite, and features a rare African gemstone. Altogether, it's worth around $10,000. As of last season, the trophy is proudly held by Liverpool, who clinched the title in a memorable campaign.

9. UEFA Champions League Trophy

The UEFA Champions League trophy is one of the most iconic and prestigious awards in club football. Every year, 32 of the best teams from across Europe compete for the honor of lifting this legendary cup. These teams usually include the top four clubs from the strongest leagues on the continent.

Made from pure silver and valued at around $15,000, the trophy represents more than just victory—it symbolizes excellence, leadership, and footballing legacy. Currently, the trophy is held by Real Madrid, a club with a rich history in the competition.

8. Bundesliga Meisterschale

The Bundesliga trophy, a striking symbol of German football excellence, was crafted in 1964 by the renowned art professor Elisabeth Treskow. Designed for the 18 founding clubs of the league, it was first lifted by FC Köln, who claimed the inaugural title that same year.

Weighing in at 11 kilograms, the trophy is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. It features a stunning 71.98-carat tourmaline, set amid silver and gold detailing. Today, the trophy is valued at approximately $57,000—not just for its materials, but for the rich history and pride it represents in German football.

7. Serie A Trophy

The trophy, known as the Scudetto, was first introduced in 1960 and is awarded to the top-ranked club in Italy’s Serie A. It was crafted by renowned artisan Ettore Calvelli, whose work has become a lasting symbol of Italian football excellence.

Standing 58 cm tall and weighing 8 kg, the trophy features a striking blue sodalite base accented with elegant gold rings. Valued at $66,000, it represents more than just victory—it’s a piece of sporting history.

Juventus FC has had a long-standing relationship with the Scudetto, lifting it an incredible 36 times. Most recently, however, it passed into the hands of AC Milan, signaling a new chapter in the league's storied tradition.

6. African Cup of Nations Trophy

The trophy holds great significance for footballing nations across the African continent. It's one of the most prestigious awards in African football, with a rich history spanning decades. Egypt has been the most dominant force in the competition over the years. However, in 2023, Ivory Coast claimed the title and currently holds the coveted $150,000 trophy.

5. Ballon d’Or Trophy

The Ballon d’Or is one of the most prestigious individual awards in world football. First created in 1956 by a French jeweller, it’s awarded to the player who has delivered exceptional performances for both their club and national team over the year.

Weighing around 12 kilograms, the trophy is made from a mix of brass and gold, making it as impressive physically as it is symbolically.

Lionel Messi holds the record for the most Ballon d’Or wins, having lifted the trophy 8 times. Cristiano Ronaldo follows closely with 5. Most recently, Manchester City’s midfield maestro Rodri was honored with the award, recognizing his outstanding form and influence on the pitch.

4. FA Cup Trophy

The FA Cup is the oldest football competition in England. The very first team to lift the trophy was Wanderers, who beat Royal Engineers 1-0 in the final held at the Kennington Oval in London.

Today, Arsenal hold the record for the most FA Cup titles. The trophy itself is made of sterling silver and is valued at around $1.18 million. Currently, Crystal Palace are the reigning champions, having defeated Manchester City in the most recent final.

3. UEFA Europa League Trophy

The UEFA Europa League is the second-tier competition in European club football, sitting just below the Champions League. Teams from various European leagues qualify for the group stage based on their country's UEFA coefficient rankings.

The Europa League trophy features a distinctive silver and yellow design and is valued at around $4.5 million.

Tottenham Hotspur are the current champions of the Europa League.

2. Copa Libertadores Trophy

The South American League’s premier club trophy ranks second in prestige on the list. Established in 1960, the league currently features 18 top clubs. The trophy itself is crafted from sterling silver and silver-coated bronze, with a total estimated value of $8.5 million. The most recent winner of the Copa Libertadores is Palmeiras.

1. FIFA World Cup Trophy

The ultimate dream for every footballer is to lift the FIFA World Cup — the most prestigious trophy in international football. This incredible quest unfolds every four years, when the world’s top 32 national teams battle it out for the chance to claim this golden prize.

The iconic World Cup trophy was crafted by the Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga. Among all nations, Brazil holds the record for the most World Cup titles. Currently, the trophy belongs to Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi. Valued at an astonishing $20 million, this trophy represents the pinnacle of football glory.

Cover Credits - FIFA.com