PNG 2016 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup launched

The Official Mascot of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2016 was launched and presented to the public today in front of thousands of football fans at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby.

The chosen mascot is a bird of paradise – a symbolic animal that is unique to Papua New Guinea – and is nicknamed “Susa”, which means “sister”, a name derived from a creole commonly used by Papua New Guineans.

The bird of paradise is also the national emblem of Papua New Guinea, and its colours – red, yellow and black – represent the colours on the flag of the host nation. The headband represents the traditional head dress worn throughout the four regions of the country.

Susa is young, charming and appeals to the younger audience and represents the host country.

The Official Mascot has been created to capture the enthusiasm of fans from all over the world who can identify with Susa, an active and sporty mascot that embodies the joy of playing football. According to Thierry Weil, FIFA Director of Marketing: “She is fun-loving, friendly and fair, which makes her the perfect ambassador for the tournament with the growing number of young women in Papua New Guinea who have been inspired by the hosting of the tournament in their home country”.

“The unveiling of the Official Mascot marks another milestone in our preparations towards hosting a tournament of this calibre. Susa is a fitting ambassador for the tournament and her uniqueness symbolises the diversity of Papua New Guinea. Susa will become an ambassador to spread the message of football throughout Papua New Guinea that the world is coming in November,” said David Chung, President of the PNG Football Association.

Susa is expected to embark on a tour of the provinces aimed at motivating and encouraging young Papua New Guineans to engage in football.

The FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will be held in Port Moresby from 13 November to 3 December and will see 16 teams vying for the World Cup title.