Man Spent Eight Years Assembling 700,000 Matchsticks Into 23ft Eiffel Tower Has Guinness World Record Entry Rejected

Trying to secure a spot in the Guinness World Records is no small feat, to say the least. 

It's not just about picking an extreme challenge; it's about actually pulling it off, which is easier said than done. 

Whether it's a task that demands lightning-fast speed or monumental scale, you'd think once you've nailed it and it's all done and dusted, you'd be in the clear and basking in the glory of recognition.

However, for 47-year-old Richard Plaud, a Frenchman bursting with national pride, his journey to achieve an outstanding feat turned sour.

He dedicated himself to creating a replica of the Eiffel Tower, standing tall at 23ft and crafted from over 700,000 matchsticks. 

Considering it took him more than eight years to complete, you can imagine the level of dedication and patience involved.

47-year-old Richard Plaud showed his patriotism to his country with his own impressive entry of the Eiffel Tower. Credit: Instagram/@toureiffelallumettes

Yet, the joy of completing this monumental task quickly turned to frustration when he learned that the Guinness World Records wouldn't be acknowledging his matchstick marvel.

The reason?

The organization pointed out that the matchsticks used by Plaud were not only unavailable for purchase by the general public but had also been modified to a point where they were no longer recognizable in their original matchstick form, disqualifying his entry.

Feeling the sting of rejection, Plaud took to his Instagram to vent his frustration, sharing a photo of his towering creation alongside a caption that reflected his disbelief and disappointment.

"The Guinness Book judges gave their verdict, without having seen my tower in real life," he stated, as translated.

He went on to quote the guidelines: "The matches used must be commercially available. Proof of this must be provided as evidence."

Continuing his argument, he expressed his confusion and disillusionment:

"As the matchsticks were not commercially available, and were not recognized as matchsticks the attempt has been disqualified."

"BIG DISILLUSION, DISAPPOINTMENT AND INCOMPREHENSION. Tell me [how] the 706,900 rods stuck one by one are not matches!!?? And they are too cut to the point of being unrecognizable!!??"

After the decision Plaud shared a picture to his Instagram page and expressed just how frustrated he was. Credit: Instagram/@toureiffelallumettes

"Clearly, the English are really different...... My matchstick tower is still tall and will be 7.19 meters for a long time!!!!! No offense to the English"

Despite the disappointing outcome, there was a silver lining as some social media followers showered Plaud with praise for his meticulous work and creative spirit.

"Congratulations their weak regulations don't matter it's the result that counts. You created a work of art," commented one admirer, recognizing the value of Plaud's efforts beyond the confines of official records.

"Sir very nice job, bravo," commended another, offering a simple yet heartfelt acknowledgment of Plaud's dedication and skill.

In the end, while the Guinness World Records might not have recognized Plaud's matchstick Eiffel Tower, his story and the admiration from his supporters highlight the true essence of creativity and perseverance.