Oliver Kay

The World Cup 2026 mascots Maple the Moose of Canada, Zayu the Jaguar of Mexico and Clutch the Bald Eagle of the US, together with former US footballers Julie Ertz and Heather O'Reilly at the draw ceremony in Washington in December 2025.

The Fifa World Cup is supposed to inspire hope and unity. This one feels different

The event will break records in terms of attendance, viewing figures and revenue; there is also uncertainty and apprehension