Key Points:
- FIFA unveiled three official mascots ahead of the World Cup soccer tournament next summer.
- Mascots reflects the World Cup’s triad of 2026 host countries: Maple the Moose (Canada), Zayu the Jaguar (Mexico), and Clutch the Bald Eagle (United States).
- Eight matches will take place in Atlanta at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in June and July, including a semifinal match on July 15.
FIFA continues to change history with the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The organization unveiled multiple mascots ahead of the soccer tournament next summer, a major departure from the single mascot in past tournaments.
The collection of mascots reflects the World Cup’s triad of 2026 host countries: Maple the Moose (Canada), Zayu the Jaguar (Mexico), and Clutch the Bald Eagle (United States). Eight matches will take place in Atlanta at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in June and July, including a semifinal match on July 15.
In addition to gracing merchandise, Maple, Zayu, and Clutch will become playable characters in the upcoming FIFA Heroes game, available on Android, iOs, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox next year. The mascots will also appear in FIFA Super League Soccer on Roblox.
Related stories:
• With 2026 FIFA World Cup, Atlanta aims to celebrate the city
• All 2026 World Cup coverage, including schedules
• Soccer bar Brewhouse Cafe opening in South Downtown
“Maple, Zayu and Clutch are full of joy, energy and the spirit of togetherness, just like the FIFA World Cup itself,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a press release. 2026 World Cup mascot shirts are already for sale at FIFA’s online store.
Atlanta is currently undergoing extensive development ahead of the World Cup, including a Beltline expansion and new businesses and restaurants opening in neighborhoods near Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Rough Draft will continue to report on news, events, and other developments leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta next summer.