Guinness World Records has officially acknowledged Richard Plaud’s matchstick Eiffel Tower, measuring an impressive 7.2 meters (23.6 feet), as the tallest of its kind. The recognition came a day after initially rejecting it, citing the use of non-commercial matches. Plaud spent 4,200 hours over eight years meticulously constructing the model with more than 706,000 matches and 23 kilograms of glue.
Plaud, who described the week as an “emotional rollercoaster,” expressed relief and joy after Guinness reversed its decision. He had believed for eight years that he was building the tallest matchstick structure. Initially, the rejection stemmed from the deviation in match type, as Plaud had modified commercially available matches, removing the heads for ease.
The Frenchman began the project using intact commercial matches but later sought an alternative method to expedite the tedious process. He contacted the manufacturer to inquire about purchasing only the wooden sticks, prompting Guinness to challenge the legitimacy of the attempt. However, upon reconsideration, Guinness acknowledged its initial strictness, with Mark McKinley, director of central records services, stating, “Richard’s attempt truly is officially amazing.”
Plaud’s dedication to his matchstick Eiffel Tower showcases the perseverance and creativity of enthusiasts who push the boundaries of record-breaking achievements.