A unique piece of art

Since 2010 Austrian metal artist Stefan Gahr has been designing the trophy for the VELUX EHF Champions League – and it keeps improving every year.

At the beginning was a simple photo. "This is how we came up with the idea for the trophy‘s form, when I saw the player’s arm, lifted up high and kind of petrified in maximum tension," says Stefan Gahr.

To build the first wooden model the artist used his own hand. "However, I have to say that I added some centimetres to it to really have a gigantic hand. The ball though is original-size and is made of steel whetted with brass."

In the process Gahr hammers the hot steel sheet into form, welds and whets it multiple times. "The trophy’s outward appearance might look similar year after year, however I keep changing my technique, so every trophy is a unique piece of art. And, of course, I try to improve year after year."

Before the winning team lift this special piece of art, fans get the chance to see the coveted trophy at close range. At the JACK & JONES autograph session on Friday it will be presented to the fans. Later that day visitors of the Opening Party can get their personal souvenir photo with the trophy at the VELUX Indoor Stand at the LANXESS arena.