The Jules Rimet trophy, the first official World Cup trophy, was stolen just four months before the 1966 FIFA World Cup in England. The theft was a sensational breach of security as the event approached, highlighting the naive security precautions of the time. During the search for the trophy, a dog named 'Pickles,' who was simply out for a walk with his owner, discovered the missing trophy in a garden, leading to a national celebration of the unexpected canine hero.

The incident of the stolen trophy is one among many fascinating stories in the history of the World Cup trophies. Unlike today's highly secure environment around the trophies, which has made theft nearly unimaginable, the 1966 case showcased a different era of inadequate security measures. The narrative surrounding the Jules Rimet trophy offers insight into the evolution of football's prestigious accolades, marking it as a significant chapter in sports history.

After its recovery, the Jules Rimet trophy's legacy continued as it witnessed many more World Cups and ultimately was retired after being won outright by Brazil in 1970. This series of events cemented the trophy's place not only in football lore but also in the context of sporting memorabilia. The tale of Pickles the dog reminds fans and historians alike of the whimsical and unpredictable nature of sports history, as well as the societal factors at play during major sporting events.