FIFA World Cup

FIFA reveals mascots for 2026 World Cup: Clutch, Zayu, Maple

FIFA

FIFA on Thursday unveiled the three official mascots for the 2026 World Cup, symbolizing the three host countries: the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Clutch the Bald Eagle (USA), Zayu the Jaguar (Mexico) and Maple the Moose (Canada) will show up on World Cup merchandise and will feature in the new FIFA Heroes video game, which will launch next year.

“The three mascots are central to the incredible, entertaining atmosphere we’re creating for this game-changing tournament,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino. “They’ll win hearts and spark celebrations across North America and around the world. I can already picture them on children’s shirts, high-fiving football legends and – in another first for this tournament – starring in video games played by millions worldwide.”

Each mascot has a backstory, shared in the FIFA announcement.

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. A street style-loving artist, music enthusiast and dedicated goalkeeper, Maple found purpose through creativity, resilience and unapologetic individuality.

Zayu the Jaguar, from the jungles of southern Mexico, embodies the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of the country. With a name inspired by unity, strength and joy, Zayu transforms on the pitch as a striker, showcasing exceptional ingenuity and agility that intimidates defenders. Off the pitch, Zayu embraces Mexican culture through dance, food and tradition, uniting people across borders with passion.

Clutch the Bald Eagle possesses an unquenchable thirst for adventure, soaring across the United States and embracing every culture, game and moment with boundless curiosity and optimism. Fearless on the pitch and uplifting off it, Clutch leads by action — rallying teammates, lifting spirits and turning every challenge into an opportunity to rise higher.

The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams. The opening game is June 11 in Mexico City, the championship match is July 19 in New York/New Jersey, and in between, 102 games will be held in 16 host cities, including Miami.

Hard Rock Stadium will host seven games — four in the group stage (June 15, 21, 24, 27), one Round of 32 game (July 3), a quarterfinal (July 11) and the bronze medal third-place game (July 28).

For ticket information, go to FIFA.com/tickets

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Michelle Kaufman
Miami Herald
Miami Herald sportswriter Michelle Kaufman has covered 14 Olympics, six World Cups, Wimbledon, U.S. Open, NCAA Basketball Tournaments, NBA Playoffs, Super Bowls and has been the soccer writer and University of Miami basketball beat writer for 25 years. She was born in Frederick, Md., and grew up in Miami.
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