Very creative! FIFA unveils new mascots for the 2026 World Cup
Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert
We're in for a grand football celebration.
Details: Today, FIFA announced that the new mascots for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup will be Clutch, Zayá, and Maple. FIFA also explained the meaning behind each mascot:
- Clutch is a bald eagle, a symbol of the United States. In 2024, the U.S. authorities officially recognized the bald eagle as the national bird.
- Zayá is a jaguar representing Mexico. Ancient Mexican civilizations, such as the Maya, held the jaguar in high esteem, associating it with the underworld and symbolizing strength and bravery.
- Maple is a moose representing Canada. The mascot is also inspired by the maple leaf, which is a national symbol of the country.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented:
“Maple, Zayá, and Clutch are full of joy, energy, and the spirit of unity—just like the FIFA World Cup itself.
I can already picture them on children's jerseys, welcoming football legends, and—another first for this tournament—playing in video games enjoyed by millions around the globe.”
- See also: Osasuna vs Elche prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 25 September 2025
The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the World Cup draw set for December 5 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
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