Remember those adorable desert rodent mascots from the 2011 AFC Asian Cup? Well, get ready to welcome them back to the pitch as they reprise their roles for the upcoming 2023 tournament.

Saboog, Tmbki, Freha, Zkriti, and Traeneh – the five lovable jerboas – are back to spread cheer and excitement as the faces of Asia’s most prestigious football event.

Their return is a testament to Qatar’s long-standing tradition of hosting world-class sporting events.

“The mascots of the 2023 Asian Cup invoke wonderful memories from 2011, but also embody the excitement and energy of what will certainly be an amazing competition,” said Hassan Al Kuwari, Marketing and Communications Executive Director of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Local Organizing Committee (LOC). “The five characters are inspired by Qatar’s natural environment and present us with yet another wonderful opportunity to showcase our culture and heritage to football fans from around the world.”

The brainchild of Qatari artist Ahmed Al Maadheed, the jerboas represent the teamwork and family values that are deeply ingrained in Qatari society. They’re also a reminder of Qatar’s commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness.

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“From the very beginning, we wanted to do something that inspired families and young people to be a part of the Asian Cup,” said Al Maadheed. “We wanted to do dig deep into our rich ecological heritage and find an animal that could represent the best of what happens on the pitch and also in our daily lives, and that was the jerboa.”

To bring these furry mascots to life, Katara Studios has created an anime-inspired animation that will transport fans back to the golden age of cartoons. Directed by Fahad Al Kuwari, the animation features a catchy song by Qatari artist Dana Al Meer and the legendary Tarek Al Arabi Tourgane.

Get ready to cheer on your favorite teams alongside Saboog, Tmbki, Freha, Zkriti, and Traeneh as they bring their unique charm to the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023. Let the games begin!