The 1982 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Spain and dominated by Europe as Italy, West Germany, France and Poland advanced to the semifinals. The field expanded from 16 to 24 teams in 1982, opening the door for several nations – Algeria, Cameroon, Honduras, Kuwait and New Zealand – to make their World Cup debuts. Neither USA nor Mexico qualified for the tournament, while Brazil and defending champion Argentina failed to make the final four.
Ultimately, the Italians won the tournament by defeating West Germany 3-1 in the Finals, played on July 11, 1982 upon the hallowed football grounds of Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home to famed club Real Madrid. For Italy, it was their third World Cup title and first since 1938. They have since added a fourth (2006) and sit second behind only Brazil who has win five. The star of the ’82 World Cup was Italy striker Paolo Rossi who led all scorers with six goals to earn both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball awards.
This exquisite 1982 FIFA World Cup Champions Gold Medal was awarded to an unidentified member of the Italy National Team. An estimated 30 official winner's medals were issued to Italian players, coaches and top staff members. Winner’s medals – whether gold, silver or bronze – from the world’s most-watched sporting event rarely surface. This is just the second gold champions medal from any World Cup that we have represented at auction.
Made of 18-karat gold by Bertoni of Milan, the front features a relief image of the current FIFA World Cup trophy. The reverse has a raised "XII COPA MUNDIAL DE LA FIFA ESPAÑA 1982" announcing the event in Spanish, with the "750" (75% gold = 18 karat) hallmark and "FIFA BERTONI MILANO” minter stamp near the bottom rim. The medal, designed with a loop for wearing with a chain, measures 35 mm in diameter and weighs 36 grams. It presents in Very Fine shape and comes housed in its original blue Bertoni presentation case.