Former France defender Benjamin Mendy has responded to criticism after selling his official 2018 FIFA World Cup winners’ trophy replica at auction for approximately €54,000.
The sale quickly sparked debate across social media, with many football fans arguing that a World Cup trophy—regardless of whether it is a replica—should never be sold because of its historical and sentimental value.
Mendy, however, dismissed the criticism and insisted that the trophy belongs to him, giving him every right to decide what to do with it.
Responding to the backlash, the former France international said:
“But is this my cup or your cup? By the way, it’s mine, it’s my cup. I do whatever I want with it. And if there’s draaaama, I’m always down. Plus, it was taking up too much space in the closet.”
His comments have further fueled discussion among football supporters. While some believe the trophy should have remained in his personal collection as a symbol of France’s triumph at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, others have defended his decision, arguing that it is his personal property.
Mendy was part of the France squad that won the 2018 World Cup, defeating Croatia 4-2 in the final to lift the nation’s second world title. As is customary, members of the winning squad received official trophy replicas rather than the original FIFA World Cup Trophy.
The auction sale has reignited conversations about whether sporting memorabilia of such significance should be treated as priceless keepsakes or personal assets that athletes are free to sell.
Despite the mixed reactions, Mendy remains unapologetic, making it clear that he has no regrets about parting with the trophy replica and is unfazed by the public criticism.
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