Peshawar, December 05, 2025: With less than 100 days to go, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ today unveiled the first-ever official mascot in the history of the competition: Naara, the fire horse.

Introduced to fans amid festivities celebrating International Volunteers’ Day in Gold Coast, the milestone follows the launch of WAVEMAKER, the tournament’s first-ever bespoke match ball created by Kelme, further underscoring the AFC’s commitment to setting new benchmarks for the Continent’s premier women’s national team competition.

The name Naara refers to “the one on fire” in the language of the Noongar people of Western Australia, where fire symbolises renewal, connection, and new beginnings – values that reflect the strength, resilience, and unity at the heart of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™.

AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “The unveiling of the official mascot marks yet another exciting chapter in the history of the  AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ and reflects the continued growth and momentum of the women’s game across the Continent.

“I believe it embodies the energy, pride, and excitement generated by women’s football across Asia, and especially in Australia, as we look ahead to a tournament that promises to inspire players, fans, and communities alike.”

Sarah Walsh, Chief Operating Officer, AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Local Organising Committee, said: “Naara is a powerful symbol of the courage, culture and ambition driving this tournament and reflects what makes the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ so special — an Asian tournament delivered here in Australia, shaped by the richness of Asian tradition and deeply connected to Australia’s First Nations history. She is a true fusion of cultures and a reminder that football is a truly global game.

“Today is especially meaningful because we’re celebrating her launch with the volunteers who will be the heart and soul of this tournament. Unveiling the first mascot in the tournament’s history is just another example of how the 2026 edition is breaking new ground and setting a new benchmark for women’s football in Asia.”

With boldness, dynamism, and unstoppable momentum at the core of her existence, Naara’s story pays homage to the evolution of women’s football in Asia, as well as the aspirations of the 12 teams set to compete in the Continental showpiece from March 1 to 21, 2026.

Based on the myth of a fire horse, Naara acts as the living flame of the tournament and honours the fearless ambition of women footballers across Asia.

Drawing inspiration from Asian cultural heritage such as the lunar calendar, Australia’s natural landscapes, and First Nations storytelling, the mascot also honours Australia’s wildlife, particularly the wild horses that roam freely across its deserts and bushlands.

Making her debut in front of tournament volunteers on International Volunteers Day, Naara also unveiled the official tournament volunteer uniform, created by Anytime Fitness, the official regional partner of the competition, underscoring the partnership’s commitment to celebrating strength, community, and leadership, as well as empowering volunteers to serve as ambassadors of health and wellness.