FIFA unveileved the mascot for the upcoming 2023 Women’s World Cup, but overlooked one thing.
The 2023 edition will make history for being the first time to nations from two federations will host the event with Australia and New Zealand the host nations.
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On Wednesday however the governing body unveiled the mascot for the event, Tazuni – a football loving penguin.
The name is said to be inspired by the body of water – the Tasman Seas – that sits between the co-hosts in combination with unity.
“Based on the Eudyptula penguin species – or little penguin as they are affectionately known – endemic to the two countries coastlines to symbolise the unity between the co-hosts,” a statement read.
Unfortunately one glaring error exists with the mascot and was pointed out by AAP’s Ben McKay.
“um … FIFA have chosen a NEW ZEALAND PENGUIN that is NOT FOUND IN AUSTRALIA as the #FIFAWWC mascot,” McKay wrote.
The New Zealand correspondent for the AAP shared information on the penguin species noted in the press release which shows the penguin species is only found in multiple locations around New Zealand.
Football fans were quick to repost McKay’s findings with many confirming his sleuthing work was factual.
One fan however pointed out the penguin mascot only being found in New Zealand was a fair trade from an Australian perspective.
“We get the most games, the easier travel schedule and the final; they get the draw, the opening game and the penguin,” one user replied.
Another said the outrage was misguided and should be directed more towards the artists work.
“I think the penguin art is the bigger debacle here,” NewsroomNZ reporter Marc Daalder wrote.
The Women’s World Cup draw will take place on October 22 from 5pm (AEDT).