FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2022: Meet Ibha, the mascot representing "Nari Shakti"

On International Day of the Girl Child 2021, FIFA unveiled an official Mascot for FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2022. FIFA released an Asiatic lioness as their official mascot by the name Ibha. Released on 11 October 2021, this mascot represents the symbol of Nari Shakti, or women's power.

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FIFA unveiled the Mascot exactly 1 year ago of the date of the tournament. The tournament will kick start on 11 October 2022 in India. Ibha is a strong and playful Asiatic lioness that aims to inspire girls and women across India and the world. Their goal is to encourage through empowerment, teamwork, and find their potential. In fact, the meaning behind her name also roughly translates in Khasi as "one with good vision or judgment".

Ibha is a really exciting and inspiring character: Sarai Bareman, FIFA Chief Women's Football Officer

Sarai Bareman, FIFA Chief Women's Football Officer said, "Ibha is a really exciting and inspiring character, one that young fans across India and around the world will have huge fun enjoying and interacting with in the lead-up to the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in India next year."

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She also added, "2022 is on course to be a hugely significant year for women's football, with future stars of the game set to showcase their skills in India – just nine months before the FIFA Women's World Cup kicks off in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Through the platform of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, Ibha will play an important role in engaging with fans, as well as encouraging and inspiring more women and girls across India and beyond to take part and play the game."

Praful Patel, LOC Chairman said on this launch, "The launch of the Official Mascot Ibha is yet another significant milestone achieved on the road to hosting the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup India 2022. Ibha symbolizes courage and strength, which are core qualities of every woman, while also embodying the vibrance and visionary spirit of the tournament."

He also added, "Today also being International Day of the Girl Child, it is an appropriate occasion to reveal the mascot who will stand for a powerful and lively image that will inspire women to take new strides in not just football, but in other walks of life too."