Meet Maple, Zayu and Clutch: The Three Mascots Ready to Define World Cup 2026
FIFA has officially pulled back the curtain on the three mascots for the FIFA World Cup 26 — and for the first time in tournament history, there's not one, but three faces representing the host nations. Meet Maple the Moose for Canada, Zayu the Jaguar for Mexico, and Clutch the Bald Eagle for the United States.
Three Countries, Three Characters
Each mascot was designed to reflect the culture, identity and spirit of its home nation — while together symbolising the unity and diversity that the expanded, three-country tournament is built around.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino was quick to set the tone: "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."
Maple the Moose — Canada
A traveller at heart, Maple has roamed every corner of Canada — from coast to coast, province to territory — soaking in the country's culture along the way. Street-style enthusiast, music lover and dedicated goalkeeper, Maple is defined by creativity, resilience and an unmistakable individuality. On the pitch, those qualities translate into legendary shot-stopping. Off it, they make Maple one of the most compelling personalities in World Cup mascot history.
Zayu the Jaguar — Mexico
Born in the jungles of southern Mexico, Zayu carries the full weight of Mexican heritage with pride and passion. The name itself draws from themes of unity, strength and joy — values that come alive whenever Zayu steps on the pitch as a striker, combining raw pace and sharp instincts to leave defenders behind. Away from football, Zayu is equally at home on the dance floor or at the table, celebrating Mexican food, music and tradition with everyone around.
Clutch the Bald Eagle — United States
Adventure-driven, endlessly curious and impossible to keep down — Clutch embodies the restless American spirit. As a midfielder, Clutch leads by example: rallying teammates, turning pressure into opportunity and lifting the energy of everyone nearby. Off the pitch, the social instinct is just as strong. Wherever Clutch goes, people come together — which, ultimately, is the whole point.
A First for Mascots: Playable in Video Games
Beyond merchandise and matchday appearances, Maple, Zayu and Clutch are breaking new ground in another way — they'll become the first FIFA competition mascots to be fully playable in a video game. FIFA Heroes, an arcade-style five-a-side football title developed by ENVER in partnership with Solace, is set to launch in 2026 across Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation and Xbox. The game lets players build fantasy squads featuring World Cup mascots past and present, football legends and popular fictional characters.
The mascots will also appear in FIFA Super League Soccer on Roblox, where fans can complete themed quests and earn exclusive rewards tied to each character.
Everywhere You Look
From stadium appearances to children's shirts, from video game rosters to social media feeds — Maple, Zayu and Clutch are set to be the faces of the tournament that runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Merchandise is already available at FIFAStore.com.
With 48 teams, three host nations and now three mascots, the World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be the most expansive — and most personal — edition the tournament has ever seen.
