Qatar Unveils AFC Asian Cup 2023 Mascots

In a heartwarming return, the familiar family of five desert rodents, known as Saboog, Tmbki, Freha, Zkriti, and Traeneh, are set to charm football enthusiasts as the official mascots of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. 

These beloved characters, first introduced during the 2011 Asian Cup, have matured and evolved, bringing a fresh vibrancy to the upcoming tournament.

The adorable mascots were reintroduced at a special ceremony in Doha, marking their readiness for a new edition of the prestigious football event. 

The characters, now brought to life through an anime-inspired animation by Katara Studios, promise to captivate audiences with their endearing personalities. 

In the build-up to the event and throughout the tournament, audiences will be treated to an animated work directed by Fahad Al Kuwari and accompanied by a melodious performance from Qatari artist Dana Al Meer and the legendary Tarek Al Arabi Tourgane.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Qatar 2023 (@qatar2023en)

Saboog, the blue son, Freha, the pink eldest daughter, Tmbiki, the yellow younger son, and the parents, Zikriti and Traeneh, in green and purple respectively, make up the charming rodent family. Each character, created by Qatari artist Ahmed Al Maadheed, embodies distinctive traits, reflecting the diversity and teamwork intrinsic to football.

As the characters make a triumphant comeback, football fans worldwide eagerly await the tournament's kickoff on January 12th, 2024. The mascots, a blend of nostalgia and innovation, are poised to create lasting memories, much like their debut in 2011.

[Image source: @qatar2023en Instagram account.]