The Birth of Mascots (1966)
Willie, the English lion, was the first official World Cup mascot. This friendly feline wearing the Union Jack shirt marked the beginning of a tradition that continues today.
The Most Beloved Mascots
- Naranjito (Spain 1982): An orange dressed as a footballer that became a cultural icon.
- Zakumi (South Africa 2010): A leopard with green hair representing African biodiversity.
- Fuleco (Brazil 2014): An endangered Brazilian armadillo.
What Mascot Will 2026 Have?
The 2026 World Cup mascot hasn't been revealed yet. It's expected to represent elements from all three host countries: USA, Mexico, and Canada.
