World Cup 2018: Russia choose Zabivaka the wolf as mascot
Last updated on .From the section Football
Russia have named Zabivaka the wolf as their mascot for the 2018 World Cup.
The wolf received 53% of the votes, beating competition from a tiger who got 27% and cat which collected 20% in the month-long voting process.
"I am sure Zabivaka will be a massive hit among fans at the Confederations Cup in 2017 and 2018 World Cup," said Russian sports minister Vitaly Mutko.
Former Brazil striker Ronaldo added: "Mascots are great ambassadors and bring so much joy to the stadiums."
Zabivaka's biography on Fifa.com:
- He is charming, confident and social and has always dreamt of becoming a football star.
- His favourite sporting pastime is playing football. He is a fair player, values his team members and respects his opponents, and he plays with skill and purpose.
- He is always fun to be around - as the joker in the pack, he knows how to make others laugh.
- He has taken to wearing cool sports glasses when he's in action; he believes they give him special targeting powers on the pitch. And he loves to pose for photos.
