Mascots on the Move: Zayu, Clutch, and Maple Take Over Seattle

The road to FIFA World Cup 26™ just got a lot more colorful. Earlier this month, the Seattle region caught a glimpse of the tournament’s high-energy ambassadors: Zayu, Clutch, and Maple. The beloved mascots didn't just stay behind velvet ropes—they hit the streets to experience the Pacific Northwest like true locals, proving that the countdown to the world's biggest sporting event is officially in high gear.

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From Pike Place to Chinatown International District

The tour was a perfect blend of Seattle’s iconic landmarks and its deep-rooted history.

• Pike Place Market: The trio navigated the bustling crowds at the Market, posing for photos with fishmongers and fans alike.  

• Chinatown International District: Leaving the stadium, the mascots explored the nearby shops and eateries while posing for photos under the historic Chinatown gate.  

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Commuting Like a Local

Perhaps the most relatable moment of the tour was seeing Zayu, Clutch, and Maple navigating our local transit system. Whether they were waiting for the Light Rail or boarding a bus, the mascots showed that getting around the city during the tournament will be half the fun.

Seeing a mascot tap an ORCA card is a great reminder: during the World Cup, public transit will be the heartbeat of the fan experience.

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Building the Momentum

The energy following this tour has been electric. From viral social media clips to spontaneous street cheers, the mascot takeover did exactly what it was meant to do: bridge the gap between the tournament and the community.

As we inch closer to kickoff, these moments remind us that the World Cup isn't just a series of matches—it’s a city-wide celebration that everyone is invited to.