There is a sea of change engulfing CONCACAF with the new leadership at the helm. And not even trophies are immune from the revolution.
On Tuesday in Mexico City, the soccer confederation representing all of North America, Central America and the Caribbean unveiled a brand new look to its most iconic prize: the Gold Cup, awarded to the winner of the bi-annual tournament which will be held this summer.
On July 28 at Chicago's Soldier Field, the winner of the 2013 edition will hoist a sleek, modern-looking Gold Cup trophy that features a host of subtle changes to the original design.
First, there is the new, tiered base, which features the engravings of all the past champions since 1991. The engraving of the words "Gold Cup" and "Copa Oro" alternate all around the outer rim of the trophy.
READ: Donovan reportedly off US quad for WCQ, but Gold Cup possible
The new trophy is 26 inches high and weighs 20 pounds and is made of gold-plated metal. The more brilliant finish is meant to "evoke the values of transparency and renewal of the new CONCACAF," according to an official release from the organization.
There's also an ulterior meaning to the larger handles on the new version, representing "the accelerated growth and dynamism of competition."
But the most curious detail would have to be the fact that there's an actual inscription on the inside of the trophy: "Forty Countries. One Confederation. One Goal."
