FIFA today unveiled Ibha, an Asiatic lioness, as the Official Mascot for the event to commemorate the first anniversary of the tournament’s start. Ibha, a strong, lively, and lovely Asiatic lioness who represents “Nari Shakti,” or women’s power, wants to inspire and motivate women and girls through collaboration, resilience, generosity, and empowering others.
Ibha wishes to encourage girls in India and around the world to make the correct decisions and attain their full potential, in addition to the meaning of her name, which roughly translates to “one with good eyesight or judgment” in Khasi.
Sarai Bareman, FIFA’s Chief Women’s Football Officer, commented about the launch today:
“Ibha is a really exciting and inspiring character, one that young fans across India and around the world will have huge fun enjoying and interacting with in the lead-up to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India next year.
“2022 is on course to be a hugely significant year for women’s football, with future stars of the game set to showcase their skills in India – just nine months before the FIFA Women’s World Cup kicks off in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Through the platform of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Ibha will play an important role in engaging with fans, as well as encouraging and inspiring more women and girls across India and beyond to take part and play the game.”
LOC Chairman Praful Patel stated: “The launch of the Official Mascot Ibha is yet another significant milestone achieved on the road to hosting the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup India 2022. Ibha symbolizes courage and strength, which are core qualities of every woman, while also embodying the vibrance and visionary spirit of the tournament.
“Today also being International Day of the Girl Child, it is an appropriate occasion to reveal the mascot who will stand for a powerful and lively image that will inspire women to take new strides in not just football, but in other walks of life too.”
From October 11 to October 30, 2022, India will host the next edition of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
