Secrets of Three Mascots: Why the 2026 FIFA World Cup Features Maple, Zayü and Clutch

FIFA has unveiled three vibrant mascots — Maple, Zayü and Clutch — for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement came on September 26, 2025, just nine months before the tournament kicks off across North America. This is the first World Cup to feature three separate mascots, each symbolizing one of the host nations: Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The decision highlights FIFA’s goal to make the 2026 World Cup feel personal to every host country. It also reflects the event’s unique tri-nation format, a first in the competition’s history.

Secrets of the Three Mascots Revealed

Maple, Zayü and Clutch were designed to embody the identity, culture and wildlife of their respective countries. FIFA says the trio represents “joy, strength and unity” — values at the heart of the World Cup. According to Reuters and the Associated Press, the mascots will play a major role in connecting with fans on and off the field.

Maple, representing Canada, is inspired by the iconic maple leaf on the nation’s flag. Portrayed as a spirited goalkeeper, Maple reflects Canada’s passion for sports and modern urban culture. Zayü, Mexico’s mascot, takes inspiration from the jaguar — a powerful creature in Mexican folklore. On the pitch, Zayü is imagined as a bold striker, while off the field it celebrates the country’s colorful traditions, music and cuisine. Clutch, the U.S. mascot, is a bald eagle — a universal symbol of freedom and vision. FIFA designed Clutch as a midfield playmaker, uniting the team much like the tournament aims to unite nations.

Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, called the mascots “fantastic symbols of joy and togetherness.” He said children are already engaging with the characters through art and games. FIFA also plans to launch merchandise, video game features and fan activities tied to the mascots ahead of the tournament.

A Historic World Cup and Its Mascot Strategy

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be hosted in 16 cities: 11 in the U.S., three in Mexico and two in Canada. It will also mark the first time the tournament expands from 32 to 48 teams. This change is meant to make the event more inclusive and competitive for fans worldwide.

The mascot strategy is part of FIFA’s push to localize the event while keeping a unified global identity. Experts say having three mascots creates stronger emotional ties with fans in each host nation. It also gives sponsors and marketers new ways to promote the event through character-based storytelling, collectibles and interactive digital content.

FIFA has long used mascots to add personality to its tournaments, but this is the first time each host nation gets its own. Analysts believe the three-character approach could inspire a new model for future multi-country events.

With excitement building and ticket sales expected to surge, the secrets of three mascots — Maple, Zayü and Clutch — reveal how FIFA plans to make the 2026 FIFA World Cup truly global and locally connected at the same time.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why are there three mascots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Because the tournament is hosted by Canada, Mexico and the U.S., and FIFA wanted each nation to have its own cultural symbol.

Q2: Who are the mascots of the 2026 World Cup?

Maple for Canada, Zayü for Mexico and Clutch for the United States.

Q3: When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place?

The event will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across North America.

Q4: How will fans interact with the mascots?

Through official merchandise, video games, social media campaigns and live fan activities.

Q5: What is special about the 2026 World Cup format?

It will feature 48 teams for the first time, expanding from the usual 32.

References

Reuters. (2025). FIFA unveils three mascots for 2026 World Cup. September 26, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). FIFA introduces Maple, Zayü and Clutch ahead of 2026 World Cup. September 26, 2025.

BBC News. (2025). 2026 FIFA World Cup mascots unveiled by FIFA. September 26, 2025.