Organizers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup showed an ironic spirit by unveiling an armadillo as the mascot for the tournament.
The Brazilian armadillo is an endangered species found in the North-East part of the country, but it will be the Cup’s most prominent symbol before, during and after the competition.
Former Brazil striker Ronaldo made the announcement on Sunday, according to FIFA.com.
“I’m delighted to welcome such an important member to the 2014 team,” said Ronaldo. “The mascot will play a key ambassadorial role in the next two years. I’m sure he will inspire many young football fans in Brazil and all over the world with the great passion which he has for the sport and for his country.”
Like its real-life counterpart, the yet-to-be-named armadillo has three bands with different colors. But the armadillo representing the 2014 World Cup is different, as it rolls up into a soccer ball that has the colors of the Brazilian flag — yellow, green and blue.
The Brazilian public will choose either “Amijubi,” “Fuleco” or “Zuzeco” as the armadillo’s official name. Voting will close in mid-November.
Brazil is hosting the World Cup finals for the first time since 1950. It will kick off in Sao Paulo on June 12, 2014 and end on July 13, 2014 at the historic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janiero.
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