For any football captain in Europe, lifting the Euros Trophy, officially known as the Henri Delaunay Cup, is the pinnacle of their career. This iconic silverware represents continental supremacy in football and embodies the dreams of nations. The updated version of this prestigious prize was first presented in June 2008 when Spain, led by Iker Casillas, claimed victory. This revamped trophy serves as a worthy successor to the original, which had long been associated with the UEFA European Championship.
The current euros trophy is the second iteration, drawing inspiration from the original design crafted by Arthus-Bertrand in 1960. It is named in honor of Henri Delaunay, a visionary figure in European football. Delaunay served as the president of the French Football Federation (FFF) and became UEFA’s first general secretary from its inception on June 15, 1954, until November 9, 1955. His dedication and foresight laid the foundation for the tournament we know today.
The Henri Delaunay Cup, the prestigious trophy awarded to the winner of the UEFA European Championship, is showcased during a UEFA event.
Significantly larger and more imposing than its predecessor, the modern euros trophy stands 18cm taller and weighs an additional 2kg, now tipping the scales at 8kg with a height of 60cm. Constructed from gleaming sterling silver, it retains the esteemed Henri Delaunay moniker. This redesign was implemented to better reflect the growing stature and importance of the UEFA European Championship on the global sporting stage.
The original euros trophy was the creation of Pierre Delaunay, Henri’s son, carrying forward his father’s vision for a premier European football competition. Although Henri Delaunay passed away in 1955, before witnessing his dream materialize, the euros trophy stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy. The updated version carefully preserves the classic aesthetic of the original design.
Subtle yet impactful modifications differentiate the new euros trophy. The base, now crafted from silver, has been enlarged to enhance stability. Furthermore, instead of being inscribed on the plinth, the names of past champion nations are elegantly engraved on the reverse side of the trophy itself.
While the original trophy was skillfully produced by the Chobillon goldsmith and later acquired by Arthus-Bertrand in Paris, the responsibility for crafting the contemporary euros trophy was entrusted to Asprey London. Asprey, renowned for their expertise as silversmiths, jewelers, and goldsmiths, boast a distinguished heritage in trophy creation, dating back to the America’s Cup trophy produced by their sister company Garrard in 1848. UEFA’s decision to commission Asprey was driven by a desire to elevate both the quality and visual impact of the euros trophy, ensuring it served as a captivating centerpiece worthy of Europe’s premier international football tournament. The original trophy was deemed too modest in scale to fully embody the grandeur of the event.
