Launch of three official mascots of World Cup 2026

The three official mascots of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Photo: FIFA)

On September 26, the International Football Association (FIFA) officially introduced the trio of mascots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Each mascot not only represents the host country, but also reflects the country's distinctive cultural identity, rich heritage and vibrant spirit. The appearance of Maple, Zayu and Clutch is a symbol of unity, diversity and a shared passion for football.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “Maple, Zayu and Clutch represent the joy, dynamism and togetherness that is the spirit of the FIFA World Cup. The three mascots will help create the atmosphere of a groundbreaking tournament. I can imagine children wearing them, the mascots shaking hands with football legends, or even appearing in video games played by millions of people around the world.”

The three mascots have the following storylines:

Maple - an artist moose from Canada, is a character who loves street art, music and plays the position of goalkeeper. Maple constantly travels throughout the provinces and states of the maple leaf country, bringing with him creative spirit, resilience and strong personality. With excellent blocking talent and leadership qualities, Maple is the embodiment of endless vitality and national pride.

Zayu, a jaguar native to the jungles of southern Mexico, is a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage and vibrant vitality. The name Zayu is inspired by the concepts of unity, strength and joy. A skillful and versatile striker, Zayu is a fearsome presence for defenders. Off the field, Zayu is associated with Mexican culture through dance, food and festivals, becoming a messenger of community unity across borders.

Clutch - the bald eagle representing the United States, is an inquisitive character, flying across the vast regions of America with an open mind and optimistic spirit. On the field, Clutch is brave and courageous; off the field, Clutch leads, inspires and connects people with excitement and enthusiasm. Like the best midfielders, Clutch spreads the spirit of the game, affirming that flying high is not only about physicality, but also about passion, ideals and endless joy.

In addition, for the first time in FIFA history, the three official mascots will become playable characters in the new video game called FIFA Heroes - a product within the rapidly growing FIFAe ecosystem to popularize digital football to a large number of fans around the world.

In addition, FIFA Super League Soccer on the Roblox platform will also organize a series of interactive missions with each mascot, providing rewards and experiences associated with each character.

Through this, FIFA expects Maple, Zayu and Clutch to appear everywhere, from stadiums to side events, welcoming international friends, inspiring the younger generation and fueling the top matches taking place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This is also the first time the tournament has 48 participating teams.

PHAN THACH

Source: https://nhandan.vn/ra-mat-ba-linh-vat-chinh-thuc-cua-world-cup-2026-post910831.html