HADDAF - THE MASCOT OF FIFA CLUB WORLDCUP SAUDI ARABIA 2023
The Sand Cat, hailing from Saudi Arabia's western dunes, is a dynamic and brave footballer known for his speed and strength. His lifelong passion for the game mirrors the widespread enthusiasm for football across the Kingdom. The FCWC Sand Cat mascot reflects local culture and wildlife conservation by representing the Saudi sand cat. This design celebrates regional biodiversity, cultural pride, and the sand cat’s resilience, while also educating fans about its behavior and conservation. Ultimately, the mascot symbolizes both local wildlife awareness and team spirit, connecting football with broader ecological and cultural values.
HADDAF COMING TO LIFE.
The FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP Sand Cat mascot design process started with concept development, where ideas are generated to reflect the Saudi sand cat’s cultural and ecological significance. Detailed design drawings are then created to capture the mascot’s unique traits and characteristics. Following this, a physical costume is crafted to bring the design to life, ensuring it is both visually striking and functional.
The digital animations were developed to enhance the mascot’s movement and expression. The final stage integrates these elements, combining the real mascot costume with any animated features to create a compelling and engaging symbol for the event.
THE FAN-FAVORITE CHARACTER OF THE EVENT
Numerous activations of the mascot, alongside branded events and the FIFA Store, ignited immense excitement among fans by seamlessly blending cultural pride with interactive experiences. The mascot's vibrant presence, coupled with engaging events and exclusive merchandise, created a buzz that resonated deeply with the audience. These initiatives not only celebrated the spirit of football and regional heritage but also fostered a strong sense of community, making the Sand Cat a beloved symbol of the event and driving unparalleled enthusiasm and engagement from fans.