Meet Maple, Zayu, and Clutch: FIFA Unveils Historic Trio of Mascots for World Cup 2026
World Cup 2026 Mascots Overview
Official Mascots
Multiple Mascots
Nations Competing
Total Matches
🎭 The Historic Mascot Trio
MAPLE THE MOOSE: Canada’s goalkeeper wearing #1, embodying strength and leadership
ZAYU THE JAGUAR: Mexico’s striker wearing #9, representing agility and heritage
CLUTCH THE BALD EAGLE: USA’s midfielder wearing #10, symbolizing unity and adventure
HISTORIC FIRST: First World Cup with multiple mascots representing each host nation
Breaking Tradition: Three Mascots for Three Nations
FIFA has unveiled an unprecedented trio of mascots for the 2026 World Cup, marking the first time in tournament history that multiple mascots will represent the event. This groundbreaking decision reflects the unique tri-nation hosting arrangement between Canada, Mexico, and the United States, with each country receiving its own distinctive character that embodies their national identity and football culture.
Personality: Street style-loving artist and music enthusiast
Attributes: Heart full of strength and leadership
Specialty: Legendary saves and defensive organization
Journey: Travels across all provinces and territories
Mission: Connecting people and embracing Canadian culture
Off-Field: Bridge between soccer and Canadian urban culture
Zayu the Jaguar: Mexico’s Fierce Heritage
Representing Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and ancient civilizations, Zayu the Jaguar embodies the passion, tradition, and competitive spirit that defines Mexican football, bringing the heart of Mexico to the world stage.
Personality: Exceptional ingenuity and agility
Playing Style: Intimidates defenders with skill and speed
Specialty: Clinical finishing and creative attacking play
Origin: From the forests of southern Mexico
Cultural Role: Embraces Mexican culture through dance, food, traditions
Symbol: Cultural celebration and cross-border connection
Clutch the Bald Eagle: America’s Unifying Force
Clutch the Bald Eagle represents the United States’ energy, determination, and competitive spirit, with a name that perfectly captures the American sports mentality of rising to the occasion in decisive moments.
Personality: Unquenchable thirst for adventure
Playing Style: Unites people and connects team play
Specialty: Purpose, passion, and playmaking ability
Mission: Embraces every culture, game, and moment
Attributes: Boundless curiosity and optimism
Symbol: American competitive spirit and determination
Unity in Diversity: The Team Dynamic
Together, Maple, Zayu, and Clutch form a complete football team, with each mascot playing a specific position that reflects their nation’s characteristics and creates a symbolic unity across the three host countries.
Midfielder: Clutch (#10) – USA’s connecting force
Striker: Zayu (#9) – Mexico’s attacking flair
Team Unity: Complete formation representing collaboration
Representation: Three nations, one tournament, unified spirit
Historic First: Breaking 60-year tradition of single mascots
FIFA Vision: Reflecting expanded 48-team tournament diversity
Commercial Strategy & Fan Engagement
The mascot trio represents a key element of FIFA’s commercial and engagement strategy, with extensive merchandise, digital experiences, and interactive opportunities planned throughout the tournament.
🎯 Mascot Merchandise & Experiences
Evolution: From simple designs to complex merchandising
2022 La’eeb: Qatar’s floating mascot representing dreams
2026 Innovation: First multiple mascots in tournament history
Legacy Goal: Creating lasting memories beyond matches
Cross-Cultural Bridge: Connecting three distinct cultures
Tournament Identity: Visual symbols of 2026’s unique format
Presidential Endorsement & Tournament Details
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that the mascots embody the joy, energy, and spirit of togetherness that defines the World Cup, while tournament preparations continue across all three host nations.
Tournament Schedule & Mascot Appearances
Digital Innovation & Gaming Integration
The mascots will transcend traditional boundaries, becoming integral parts of digital experiences and gaming platforms to engage fans worldwide before, during, and after the tournament.
Digital & Gaming Presence
The unveiling of Maple, Zayu, and Clutch marks a historic evolution in World Cup tradition, with three mascots perfectly capturing the collaborative spirit of the first tri-nation World Cup while celebrating each host country’s unique identity and culture.
From Maple’s Canadian strength and leadership to Zayu’s Mexican heritage and passion, and Clutch’s American unity and adventure, these mascots represent more than just tournament symbols. They embody the unprecedented scale and diversity of the 2026 World Cup, creating bridges between cultures and generations while promising to leave a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the 104 matches to be played across North America.