Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has revealed ‘Falco’ the Falcon, the tournament mascot for the 2023 WMF Minifootball World Cup, which is being hosted in the emirate between October 26 and November 4.

The international competition will see 32 national teams battle in 64 matches across 10 days, to take home the Minifootball World Cup trophy as world champions.

In the run-up to the tournament, ‘Falco’ has stepped out into the community for a grand tour of schools, offices, and malls, where it was given a warm welcome.

Pupils can keep an eye out for ‘Falco’ as he takes part in interactive sessions across schools, where students will have the opportunity to take photos with him and learn more about minifootball and the upcoming tournament. These sessions aim to educate kids about minifootball as well as the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.

The choice of the falcon as the mascot for the 2023 Minifootball World Cup Ras Al Khaimah symbolises deep cultural and historical importance in the UAE and embodies traits that align with the spirit of the tournament, said a statement.

Known for its speed, precision, and agility, the falcon mirrors the skills and athleticism demonstrated on the minifootball field. Moreover, the falcon is revered as a symbol of unity, freedom, and strength in the UAE's heritage, making it a natural ambassador for an international sporting event that brings together teams and nations from all over the globe.

The official mascot was designed by Abdulla Alsharhan, a self-taught Emirati Artist from Ras Al Khaimah. Alsharhan has written and illustrated more than 12 books and designed dozens of mascots for various events and organisations. With a deep understanding of character concept design and the ability to convey emotions, he has created a mascot that embodies the essence of the event in Ras Al Khaimah, said a statement.

The World Cup trophy for the tournament has also been revealed. Retaining the iconic shape of the previous edition, the trophy has undergone a significant transformation, now exuding the vibrant spirit of the tournament’s host city, Ras Al Khaimah, said the statement.

Reflecting the signature terracotta dunes of the nature Emirate, the 2023 Minifootball World Cup trophy has been reimagined in a radiant shade of red, also symbolising the fiery passion of the sport and the warm hospitality of the Emirate.

The 70cm tall trophy boasts a sleek, streamlined design. A sculpted golden globe sits atop the trophy, symbolising the global reach of minifootball and the diverse cultures it unites. – TradeArabia News Service