The FIFA World Cup is happening, which means football fans are being treated to a month of goals, heartbreak, questionable refereeing decisions, and enough statistics to power several spreadsheets.
McDonald’s, meanwhile, is preparing collectible toys.
To celebrate FIFA World Cup 26, the fast-food giant is launching a global campaign that combines limited-time meals, football-themed experiences, and a collection of 12 collectible cups inspired by some of the sport’s biggest stars.
The lineup includes familiar names such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Alexia Putellas, Son Heung-min, Vinícius Júnior, Cole Palmer, Christian Pulisic, and several other football icons from around the world. Each collectible comes with a unique digital component that unlocks content and experiences through the McDonald’s app.
Naturally, there will also be food involved.
Participating markets will offer special FIFA World Cup meals featuring collectible packaging and promotional items tied to the tournament. The exact menu varies by region, but the goal remains the same: give football fans another excuse to visit McDonald’s while waiting for the next match to kick off.
The company is also introducing what it calls Matchday Magic, a collection of digital experiences, games, and interactive content designed to keep fans engaged throughout the tournament.
Kids aren’t left out in this soccer madness, either. For kids, and the child in every one of us, there’s the FIFA World Cup 26 Happy Meal Squishmallows Squad. Starting on June 09 (yes, we are late also for this one), each Happy Meal comes with one of 23 Squishmallows plushies, including the official mascots for FIFA World Cup 26 of the three host countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Each plushie is garbed in unique soccer-inspired jerseys and McDonald’s graphics. In addition, the meal comes in special packaging and a scannable code that unlocks an exclusive digital game.
Images: McDonald’s.
