To thunderous applause… Vito the viscacha! The animal will be one of the symbols of the Under-20 World Cup, held from September 27 to October 19, in Chile. “With his sociable character, his endearing look and his boundless energy, Vito is destined for great success with fans around the world. This charming viscacha – animal from South America, cousin of the rabbit or the chinchilla – will play a central role in promoting and representing the event, both in Chile and internationally.”, explains FIFA.
The official mascot was presented at a special ceremony in Valparaíso, in the presence of the Chilean Minister of Sports Jaime Pizarro and the president of the Chilean Football Federation Pablo Milad. mascot-themed mural, in collaboration with a local graffiti artist, was unveiled at the same time.
“Vito embodies the best of our country: the resilience needed to survive in the rugged landscapes of the Andes Mountains, at the end of the world, facing constant adversity, underlines Pablo Milad. This is what defines Chile: we are fighters who never give up, but we are also a joyful people who is brimming with talent. Our federation, in collaboration with FIFA and the Chilean government, is proud to present this mascot, who will undoubtedly be an excellent ambassador for our country."