UEFA unveil EURO 2024 mascot

With less than a year to go until EURO 2024 kicks off in Germany, the official mascot of the tournament made its first appearance today at a school in Gelsenkirchen, before being introduced to the crowd ahead of Germany's game against Colombia at Arena AufSchalke this evening.

Colombia won the friendly 2-0 through goals from Luis Diaz and a penalty from Juan Cuadrado. Hansi Flick's side were booed off at full time having lost 1-0 to Poland over the weekend.

The mascot’s name has yet to be chosen. Over the next two fortnight, children in UEFA's Football in Schools programme and on UEFA.com fans can vote to decide the mascot's name. Taking inspiration from the German word for bear, "Bär," the four choices are: Albärt, Bärnardo, Bärnheart, and Herzi von Bär.

Philipp Lahm, UEFA EURO 2024 tournament director and former German national team captain, said: “Football sparks an incredible power that promotes teamwork, perseverance and a healthy, active lifestyle, all while having fun. As a parent, I know how important it is to stimulate children's imagination. With the launch of our tournament mascot, we hope to create a fun and likeable character that will inspire them to enjoy playing football.”

Berni was the name of the mascot when the Euros were last held in Germany back in 1988. Berni was a giant rabbit who wore a football kit in the colours of the German flag.

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