Trophy Tour thrills fans in Azerbaijan

The Official Trophy for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Azerbaijan 2012 was presented to the Local Organising Committee by FIFA on the 6 July, after the Official Draw Ceremony. The Trophy was then introduced to the public during the Commercial Affiliates Trophy Tour, and departed for the cross-country Trophy Tour shortly thereafter. From now on, football fans in Azerbaijan have the chance to see one of the most famous pieces of silverware in football first hand during the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Azerbaijan 2012 'Follow the Trophy' tour. Lankaran was the first city to greet the Trophy for Azerbaijan 2012, the main award of the championship. A vibrant concert programme with the performance of popular local singers, such as the official friend of the championship Chingiz Mustafayev, the State Dance Ensemble 'Odlar Yurdu,' Official Mascot of the Championship 'Top Top Girl', DJ Merkury and lots of interactive activities kept the public entertained throughout the evening. Being a second host-city of the championship, Lankaran is well known for its passionate football culture and active fan groups. This culture had its own unique presence, which played an enormous role in creating the type of fun atmosphere, for which the concerts are known.The second venue hosting the Trophy was Azerbaijan's second largest city, Ganja. The concert organised for the promotion of the championship took place on 24 August, at the biggest square in the city, where the promo videos of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup were shown on the giant screen. Apart from the promotion of the upcoming event, the other goal of the Trophy Tour was the successful ticket sale, which took place right next to the stage. The concert was also a great success, attracting hundreds of visitors. The special section, where fans could take part in the face painting competition or football quiz, was full of competitors willing to win the prize. The regional Trophy Tour has become a global attraction, with fans being given a one-off chance to see the trophy close up and savor the competition experience through the event. The 'Meet the Trophy' tour is a unique opportunity for the fans to view the Official Trophy and the 'Top Top Girl' up close and in person. It is also a great opportunity to win presents with the official marks of the championship, spend a great time with friends and family, enjoy the festive atmosphere, make memories dedicated to the tournament, and enjoy the entertainment put together by the Local Organising Committee (LOC). The tour began in Lankaran on 20 August before travelling around the country. With the third successful concert taking place in the City of Sumgayit on 27 August, the tour is destined to finish on a high note by visiting the coast of the Caspian Sea on 15 September in the capital, Baku. The LOC chairman Elkhan Mammadov said: "Our aim is to share the excitement of the upcoming World Cup with the public, as well as all fans of football. A major international sporting event is about to take place in Azerbaijan, and we want to provide the chance for everyone to be close to the Trophy and be part of the organisational efforts. We look forward to the final stop of the tour in Baku, where a large crowd is expected to join us in celebrating the coming of this great event to Azerbaijan." Follow the Trophy tour schedule: 20 August – Lankaran, Heydar Aliyev Park 20:00 24 August – Ganja, Azadlig Square 20:00 27 August – Sumgayit, Green Theatre 20:00 15 September – Baku, National Park (Boulevard) 20:00 FIFA