One of the first things visitors arriving in Mexico City for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are likely to see is the wide grin of an axolotl, with the salamander unique to this part of the world splashed in bright purple on murals and subway cars or depicted in sculptures dribbling a soccer ball.
Named after the Nahuatl word for “water monster”, the axolotl (pronounced ah-sho-lo-tul) has become the unofficial mascot, with the city hosting up to five World Cup matches, including the competition opener last Thursday (June 11).
