Maple, Zayu and Clutch
| Maple, Zayu and Clutch | |
|---|---|
.jpeg) From left to right: Maple, Zayu, and Clutch | |
First appearance | 2026 FIFA World Cup |
| Created by | FIFA |
| In-universe information | |
| Species | Moose (Maple) Jaguar (Zayu) Bald eagle (Clutch) |
| Gender | Male (all) |
| Nationality | Canadian (Maple) Mexican (Zayu) American (Clutch) |
Maple, Zayu, and Clutch were the official mascots of the 2026 FIFA World Cup held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.[1] On September 25, 2025, the anthropomorphic moose, jaguar and bald eagle characters were announced.[2]
Description
[edit]Maple, an anthropomorphic Canadian moose, appears in red and represents creativity and resilience. He is a goalkeeper and draws inspiration from the maple leaf, Canada's national symbol. Zayu [ˈsa.ju], an anthropomorphic Mexican jaguar, wears the traditional green and acts as a forward. Inspired by the importance of the animal to ancient civilizations of Mexico, it symbolizes strength, agility, and cultural pride. Clutch, an anthropomorphic American bald eagle, wears the blue uniform of the American team and symbolizes courage, leadership, and unity, acting as a midfielder; his name references the concept of clutch, the ability to excel under pressure.[3][4]
Appearance in media
[edit]Maple, Zayu and Clutch were featured as playable characters in the FIFA Heroes video game, with each mascot having its own special ability. Players were able to field the mascots alongside international football players from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.[5]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ↑ Pizhol, Pavlo (September 24, 2025). "FIFA reveals first teasers of World Cup 2026 mascots". Tribuna. Retrieved September 24, 2025.
- ↑ "Colourful trio of mascots unveiled for FIFA World Cup 26". FIFA. September 25, 2025. Retrieved September 26, 2025.
- ↑ "Who are the 2026 World Cup mascots? Maple, Zayu and Clutch!". ESPN. September 25, 2025.
- ↑ Miller, Nick (September 25, 2025). "Over-analysing the 2026 World Cup mascots: Zayu, Maple and Clutch". The New York Times.
- ↑ "FIFA reveals first licensed game since EA Sports split". ESPN. October 2, 2025. Retrieved December 28, 2025.