FIFA has announced that Maple the Moose will be Canada's official mascot for the 2026 World Cup. The announcement was made on Thursday, revealing that Maple will represent Canada alongside Zayu the Jaguar for Mexico and Clutch the Bald Eagle for the United States.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed excitement about the mascots, stating, "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."
The tournament will feature an expanded format with 48 teams and 104 matches, taking place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 16 host cities, including Toronto and Vancouver.
Maple the Moose is depicted as a vibrant character, wearing a red jersey and a lime green headband. According to FIFA, Maple embodies a fun-loving spirit and is described as a dedicated goalkeeper, music enthusiast, and street style artist. The organization stated, "With a knack for making legendary saves and a heart full of strength and leadership, Maple combines endless stories and unstoppable flair."
The mascots were designed to reflect the unique cultures and heritage of their respective countries. Zayu the Jaguar, representing Mexico, is characterized as a striker who showcases agility and ingenuity on the field while celebrating Mexican culture through dance and food. Clutch the Bald Eagle, representing the U.S., is portrayed as an adventurous midfielder who unites people through sports and exploration.
In addition to their roles as mascots, Maple, Zayu, and Clutch will also appear in a new FIFA-licensed video game titled "FIFA Heroes," set to launch next year. This game aims to make digital football more accessible to fans, allowing players to create teams featuring past and present FIFA mascots, top soccer players, and popular fictional characters.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks the first time that three nations will co-host the tournament, highlighting a collaborative effort to celebrate the sport and its global community.