Six most loved mascots from sporting events that touched hearts of fans

New Delhi [India], April 26 (ANI): The sporting world is often credited with being the first to introduce the concept of 'mascot' and it has endured to this day.
Since the beginning, brands have placed a special emphasis on these cute, lovable, unique characters to engage with the consumers and in recent times, they are used for merchandising as well.
Every sports league from cricket to football to tennis have been using mascots to build their brand loyalty and engage with fans whether it be an internal cricket league such as IPL's teams or the Olympics. Various IPL teams, as well as the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar in November, have recently introduced their mascots to entice fans.
So, let's look at the six most iconic mascots of all time from the sports industry.
1. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: La'eeb

Every year, the FIFA World Cup awes us with its unique mascot designs and ideas. This year, the introduction of the one-of-a-kind yet significant mascot 'La'eeb' prompted us to reflect on and appreciate innovation. As per the organizers, 'La'eeb' comes from the mascot-verse - a place that is indescribable. It encourages everyone to believe in themselves as 'Now is All'. La'eeb is a cheerful, adventurous, and inquisitive mascot who wears Qatari national attire. Apart from being a joyful figure, it has a lovely meaning: it is an Arabic word that means "super-skilled player".
2. Beijing Winter Olympics 2022: Bing Dwen Dwen

The official mascot for the Beijing Winter Olympics, which took place in February 2022, was Bing Dwen Dwen, a panda coated in ice who resembled an astronaut suit. A character which portrayed happiness, liveliness and inspiration, was designed to inspire the Olympic spirit of the athletes. You must be wondering, what was the meaning of its name? Well, Bing signified 'ice,' whereas Dwen Dwen meant 'cuteness and vibrancy'. Also, a glowing bright coloured circle around his face enhanced his cuteness and sweetness.
3. Tokyo Olympics 2020: Miraitowa

Another renowned mascot with a unique name was Miraitowa, which in Japanese means 'future' and 'eternity'. Designed by Ryo Taniguchi for the 2020 Summer Olympics, Miraitowa's blue-chequered pattern made it look incredibly strong and innovative, and the character's design was based on the game's official emblem.
4. 2022 Winter Paralympics: Shuey Rhon Rhon

A chubby cute little mascot had won the heart of both athletes and spectators. It was the official mascot of 2022 winter Paralympics with a patch of snow on its head depicting a message of good luck, topped with a crown.
5. Commonwealth Games 2010: Shera

Do you recall our adorable little 'Shera'? Yes, the lovely tiger in a white sporting jersey and blue shorts from the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India. It was chosen as the tournament's mascot for that year because it symbolised a strong and courageous India, as well as the fact that the 'Tiger' is India's national animal. Shera was the most well-known and friendly character of the time, appreciated by people of all ages. The mascot reflected Indian virtues such as majesty, courage, power, and grace.
6. ICC Cricket World Cup, 2011: Stumpy

Stumpy, a mascot in action with a lovely smile and a lot of energy, was the official mascot for the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. The activity of a cricket player was conveyed by an animated personality. All of the cricketers, as well as the audience, had fallen in love with a cute tiny fluffy character. (ANI)