The World Cup trophy is to be presented to the public on a tour throughout Italy starting in April, Italian soccer federation said.

Italian soccer federation commissioner Luca Pancalli likened the tour to the Olympic torch relay and said the trophy will visit every Italian city.

"It should last at least 18 months, although an extension is possible until the beginning of the next World Cup in 2010," Pancalli said Friday.

"The tour should be a way to honor the Azzurri's triumph and at the same time allow all Italians to admire the trophy."

Italy won its fourth World Cup title in July, beating France on penalties in the final in Berlin.

Source: Xinhua