The mascots for the 2026 World Cup have been unveiled with Clutch the Bald Eagle, Maple the Moose and Zayu the Jaguar representing the three host nations at subsequent yr’s event.
“Maple, Zayu and Clutch are full of joy, energy and the spirit of togetherness, just like the FIFA World Cup itself,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino mentioned in a press release launched Thursday.
FIFA says the three mascots all symbolize a part of their respective nation’s tradition.
“Maple the Moose was born to roam, journeying across all of Canada’s provinces and territories while connecting with people and embracing the country’s rich culture,” Thursday’s launch mentioned.
Zayu hails from southern Mexico’s jungles and represents the nation’s wealthy heritage.
“Zayu embraces Mexican culture through dance, food and tradition, uniting people across borders with passion. More than an athlete, Zayu is a symbol of cultural celebration and connection, carrying the heart of Mexico with pride.”
Flying over the United States, Clutch embraces “every culture, game and moment with boundless curiosity and optimism.”
The three mascots are additionally footballers in their very own proper.
Maple is the goalkeeper of the trio, Zayu is a striker identified for his or her “exceptional ingenuity and agility”, with Clutch knitting all of it collectively in midfield.
According to FIFA, the mascots are “coming together to symbolize unity, diversity and the shared passion for the beautiful game.”
The opening match of the 2026 World Cup is set to kick off in Mexico City at the Estadio Azteca on June 11, 2026. The remaining is scheduled to be performed a little bit over a month later, close to New York City, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
The remaining will embrace a halftime show for the very first time.
The schedule will include 104 matches, as the event has been expanded to embrace 48 nationwide groups, up from 32.