"FIFA has revealed not one but three characters this time round in order to represent each of the host nations: Canada, Mexico and the US. There's Zayu the jaguar, Maple the moose and Clutch the bald eagle. With a 3D art style, they've been compared to everything from Paw Patrol and Pokémon to cereal box mascots, but I think this is going to be a winning team. They're vibrant, innovative and they sure beat the Qatar ghost."
"FIFA president Gianni Infantino has described the mascots as symbols of "joy, energy and the spirit of togetherness." On social media, the reaction has been divided. Some people love them, while some have criticised the characters as 'basic', both in terms of the 3D animation style and the oversimplification of host nations' culture and environment. Some suggest they look like "DreamWorks knockoffs"."
"But I think these guys have more personality and story than most World Cup mascots we've seen. They each have their own colour and brand pattern. They even have clear team roles. Zayu is team captain (I hope that doesn't spark an international diplomatic incident), while Maple plays in goal. And they also mark an exciting World Cup first: they'll be playable characters."
World Cup mascots play a major role in event identity, especially for children. The 2026 tournament presents three mascots representing Canada, Mexico and the United States: Zayu the jaguar, Maple the moose and Clutch the bald eagle. The characters use a 3D art style and have drawn comparisons to Paw Patrol, Pokémon and cereal-box mascots. Public reaction is mixed, with praise for vibrancy and innovation and criticism that the designs are "basic" or oversimplify cultures. FIFA described them as symbols of "joy, energy and the spirit of togetherness." Each mascot has distinct colours, brand patterns and team roles, and they will be playable characters. Zayu is a green striker and captain from southern Mexico who embraces dance, food and tradition.
Read at Creative Bloq
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