Why is it called the FIFA World Cup and not simply the Football World Cup?

Why is it called the FIFA World Cup instead of simply the Football World Cup? IOL Sport’s Michael Sherman explores FIFA’s branding strategy, history and controversial reputation. Picture: Alex Slitz/Getty Images/AFP

We all know that the FIFA World Cup means the Football World Cup – or soccer if you’re American – but why exactly does the world governing body include itself in the tournament’s name?

The ICC and World Rugby don’t include their names in the respective Cricket and Rugby World Cups, yet FIFA does.

At first glance, it’s a little perplexing, but perhaps not when you think about it.

To me, it’s all about branding. Even if it were simply called the Football World Cup, there’s no doubt FIFA’s branding would still be plastered everywhere.