2026 World Cup Unveils Its Trio of Official Mascots in Stunning First Look
The 2026 World Cup introduces three fresh ambassadors. As personalities like Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump compete for attention, the tournament's official mascots—representing each hosting country—have been revealed.
Clutch, Zayu and Maple made their debut through FIFA this week, continuing a custom that started with World Cup Willie in 1966. Football's governing organization typically doesn't venture far from conventional choices when creating World Cup mascots, consistently selecting animals most closely linked to the host country. England's symbol from six decades past, Willie, was a lion.
During the U.S.'s first hosting of the men's championship in 1994, Striker the World Cup Pup served as the chosen mascot. Instead of a canine, the forthcoming tournament's planners have selected something even more obvious.
U.S.—Clutch the Bald Eagle
What represents America better than a bald eagle? The United States' national emblem features this raptor characteristically displayed, grasping an olive branch and 13 arrows in its claws.
Clutch, America's designated mascot, doesn't carry any weapons in the initial visuals. The midfielder—each figure has their designated role—reportedly possesses "an insatiable desire for exploration, flying throughout the United States and welcoming every culture, match and experience with unlimited curiosity and enthusiasm," based on the elaborate background story supplied by FIFA.
"Bold on the field and inspiring beyond it, Clutch demonstrates leadership through actions—motivating teammates, boosting morale and transforming every obstacle into a chance to soar higher," the description continues "A social catalyst and athletics enthusiast, Clutch, like all exceptional midfielders, brings people together wherever they travel, demonstrating that genuine flight involves purpose, dedication and enjoyment."
Mexico—Zayu the Jaguar
Mexico has previously hosted two World Cups but Zayu the jaguar represents the first feline mascot. In 1970, a rosy-cheeked youngster called Juanito received the distinction, with his belly showing beneath a green jersey while he grinned uncertainly under an enormous sombrero.
Pique, a humanized jalapeño pepper in 1986, also wore a sombrero's brim.
Zayu notably lacks headwear but allegedly possesses "remarkable creativity and nimbleness that unsettles defenders."
FIFA consistently maintains that the goal-scoring jaguar represents "more than just an athlete." "Beyond the field, Zayu celebrates Mexican heritage through movement, cuisine and customs, bringing people together across boundaries with enthusiasm."
Canada—Maple the Moose
Little effort was required in selecting Canada's symbol. Maple the Moose is "destined to wander, traveling throughout all of Canada's provinces and territories while engaging with communities and celebrating the nation's diverse heritage."
The inaugural goalkeeping mascot in World Cup tradition is also "a fashion-forward creative" and "musical aficionado." True to the stereotype of the position, Maple possesses "bold uniqueness."