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The Year of the Fire Horse Begins: Naara Leads the Charge into AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026
Meet Naara, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 first ever official mascot. A new face is leading the charge into March.
From March 1, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ kicks off with the continent’s biggest stars set to light up stadiums across the country. As anticipation grows ahead of March, Naara is stepping forward to lead the charge. She is the first official mascot in the tournament’s history and a symbol created to bring the spirit of women’s football to life across the continent.
More than just a matchday moment, Naara represents courage, belief and movement. Elegant, spirited and fiercely independent, she reflects the ambition of women and girls across Asia and Australia as the competition prepares to unite twelve of the region’s top national teams from 1 to 21 March 2026.
Her arrival could not be more fitting.
A Fire Horse for a New Era
In the lunar calendar, 2026 marks the Year of the Horse. When the tournament kicks off in March, it will sit in the early phase of this cycle which is ruled by the fire element. Naara draws her strength from this intersection of energy, spirit and destiny as a rare Fire Horse.
Her story is inspired by Asian cultural heritage, Australia’s vast natural landscapes and the wisdom of First Nations storytelling. The result is a mascot created to unite these worlds with one mission. Ignite the dreams of a continent and inspire fans to dream fearless.
The name Naara comes from the language of the Noongar people of Western Australia and means “the one on fire”. In Noongar culture, fire is seen as a force of renewal that brings communities together for song, dance and story while restoring land and sparking new life.
Strength. Resilience. Energy. These are the qualities she carries into every stadium.
A Mascot Ready for the Big Stage
Naara made her debut on International Volunteers Day at Broadwater Parklands on the Gold Coast, arriving atop a bright red fire truck before stepping on stage to unveil the tournament’s volunteer uniform. Fans also caught their first glimpse of her fearless personality through the official launch video voiced by former Matilda Grace Gill.
Since then, she has already begun dancing her way into the hearts of local fans by teaching signature moves alongside volunteers and performers. It is just the beginning of her journey to energise matchdays and inspire young supporters across Perth, Sydney and the Gold Coast when the action begins next month.
The Year of the Fire Horse is almost here. And Naara is ready to lead the way.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of history and be part of the action at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™. From thrilling goals to unforgettable moments on the pitch, this is a tournament every football fan will want to witness live. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster.com.au and be part of the excitement as history is made!
