2022 FIFA World cup unveils tournament mascot to widespread derision

4th April 2022

FIFA has unveiled the new mascot for the upcoming 2022 World Cup, set to be held in Qatar.

As a result, the mascot, named La’eeb, has been widely mocked on social media after being revealed before the group stage draw on Friday.

According to the organisation, La’eeb is an “Arabic word meaning super-skilled player”, although it hasn’t escaped social media’s attention that the ghost-like figure does not actually have any feet to play football with.

One user said: “Why is casper playing football ??? the thing doesn’t even have feet like.”

why is casper playing football ??? the thing doesn't even have feet like 😭 https://t.co/IHbbmwpl1x
— selya (@holtcupcakes) April 1, 2022

Another added: “Okay, who had Ghost Napkin in the mascot sweepstakes?

Okay, who had Ghost Napkin in the mascot sweepstakes? https://t.co/ZuMVmFKjqs
— Rich (@RichPT1) April 1, 2022

FIFA announced that fans around the world will soon be able to interact with the new mascot in the form of downloadable GIFs and stickers via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Whatsapp, and Snapchat. Downloadable screensavers and filters will also be made available.

“We are delighted to unveil La’eeb as the official mascot for the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world,” deputy director general, marketing, communications and tournament experience, supreme committee for delivery & legacy, Khalid Ali Al Mawlawi said.

“We are sure fans everywhere will love this fun and playful character. La’eeb will play a vital role as we engage fans young and old in Qatar’s FIFA World Cup experience.”

The reaction was not entirely negative however, with some praising the mascot’s appearance.

One social media user even called the new mascot “adorable” with another using heart eye emojis for its appearance

It's much Adorable .#The_official_mascot of the 2022 World Cup pic.twitter.com/XmipF2FuXk
— Will of Myanmar ( နွေဦးမော်ကွန်း) (@willofmyanmar) April 2, 2022