FIFA reveals it will have a trio of mascots for the 2026 World Cup
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- FIFA introduced three mascots for the 2026 World Cup across host nations.
- Maple the Moose, Zayu the Jaguar and Clutch the Bald Eagle represent Canada, Mexico and the U.S.
- Kansas City will host six matches, with mascot Clutch expected to appear locally.
Mascots have always been a big part of a World Cup. That was true in 1994, when the competition was held in the United States and Striker the dog was the mascot.
The World Cup is returning to the U.S., which will co-host the 2026 tournament with Mexico and Canada. FIFA announced Thursday that there will be three mascots: Maple the Moose in Canada, Zayu the Jaguar in Mexico and Clutch the Bald Eagle in the United States.
“The 26 team has just got bigger – and more fun! 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 said in a news release.
“The three mascots are central to the incredible, entertaining atmosphere we’re creating for this game-changing tournament. They’ll win hearts and spark celebrations across North America and around the world.”
FIFA shared a video of the mascots.
Kansas City will play host to six World Cup matches next summer, including two knockout matches. There’s a good chance Clutch will be at or around GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Here is more on the U.S. mascot from FIFA: “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. A social spark and sports fanatic, Clutch, like all great midfielders, unites people wherever they go, proving that true flight is about purpose, passion and play.”
This story was originally published September 25, 2025 at 10:42 AM.
