VIDEO. Toulouse: why you can’t touch the Rugby World Cup trophy
The Webb Ellis trophy was in Toulouse this Monday, on the occasion of the France 2023 Rugby Tour. He was paraded around town religiously.
In less than a year, the kick-off of the Rugby World Cup will be whistled. In the meantime, the teams of France 2023, the organizing committee of the competition, criss-cross France to trigger the enthusiasm around the event.
This Monday, France 2023 Rugby Tour was in Toulouse. For the occasion, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Place du Capitole hosted rugby events. The people of Toulouse were able to dress up as a supporter thanks to accessories and the most athletic tested their penalty kick.
At the same time, oval ball enthusiasts were able to visit the World Cup train at Matabiau station. In this traveling exhibition accessible free of charge from noon to 6 p.m., the object of all desires has polarized the attention of thousands of visitors. In the 4th car, the Webb Ellis trophy, protected by glass and illuminated by blue, white and red lights, was presented. It’s something to see her in person. We can see the details of this jewel made of gold, marvel at Sophie, passionate about oval balls. To be able to observe it at home, it gives ideas. We imagine that the France team will raise it next year. »
Mandatory gloves
The Rugby World Cup did not wisely stay on the train. She took advantage of her stay in Toulouse to take a walk. After having amazed young and old alike, the Webb Ellis trophy was moved to the Capitole, in the Henri IV courtyard, where it could be admired from 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. fact: the bamboche. From 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., the trophy animated the late night at the Victor Hugo market where a Marseillaise was sung at 9 p.m. On site, a dress code was compulsory: blue, white and red for everyone.
But be careful, to transport the trophy from one place to another, the protocol is strict. Members of France 2023 had to wear gloves to grab it. Prohibition to lightly touch the object. No replica of the Webb Ellis Trophy exists. There is only one cup that the winning countries pass on to each other every four years. Only successful players can touch it.
See you in a year
This Tuesday, the train remains in the station from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. He has already stopped in 46 cities since leaving Lille on July 21. Before the end of its trip, on November 12, the exhibition must still visit five cities. The rugby spirit must still spread a little before D-Day.
In a year, Toulouse plays an important role in the Rugby World Cup. It is one of the 9 host cities. The city will host meetings from Japan, Fiji and New Zealand.