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The Webb Ellis Cup, also referred to as the “Webb Ellis Trophy”, is named after William Webb Ellis, who is often credited as the inventor of rugby football and is the main award of the Rugby World Cup since the first competition in 1987. At 38 centimetres high, the gilded silver trophy is similar in size to football’s FIFA Cup. The Webb Ellis Cup was inspired from an existing model – a 1906 trophy based on a 1740 design. The satyr on one handle maybe represents rugby’s traditionally rough culture. The nymph on the other one looks pleased to be forever unattainable. On the face of the trophy, the words “International Rugby Football Board” and below that arch “The Webb Ellis Cup” are engraved.

History

The trophy design was chosen at the royal jewellers in London in 1986 by the English chairman of the organising committee, John Kendall-Carpenter, and the then secretary of the IRFB. It was chosen for use in February 1987, Ronnie Dawson of Ireland, Keith Rowlands of Wales, Bob Stuart and Dick Littlejohn of New Zealand and the Australians Nick Shehadie and Ross Turnbull approved of the choice of the trophy.

New Zealand becomes the first nation to win the Webb Ellis Cup when they won the 1987 Rugby World Cup. The Webb Ellis Cup has been held by four nations; New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and England.

The current holders of the Cup are South Africa after beating former Champions England 15-6 in the 2007 Final.

At the moment Australia and South Africa have both won it twice.

Article From: Imperial Trophy Sydney - Fine Sport Trophy for Rugby