The global collectible toy has found a home at the FIFA World Cup, with FIFA-themed Labubu figures emerging as one of the tournament’s hottest fan collectibles.
The official collaboration between Pop Mart and FIFA has transformed the elf-like character into a must-have item, with supporters treating the plush toys as unofficial mascots throughout the competition.
Originally created by artist Kasing Lung, Labubu has enjoyed explosive popularity in recent years, driven by the booming blind-box collectible market.
The character’s success has now crossed into the world of football through the “The Monsters x FIFA” collection, featuring Labubu dressed in football-inspired outfits and World Cup-themed accessories.
The trend gained momentum after giant Labubu mascots appeared during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
One oversized figure wore Argentina’s national team jersey while holding the World Cup trophy, while another appeared in Mexico’s colors carrying popcorn, delighting fans and quickly going viral across social media.
Fans have since been spotted carrying Labubu dolls in stadiums, attaching miniature versions to backpacks, and sharing photos of the collectibles alongside matchday experiences.
Limited availability and the mystery “blind box” format have fueled demand, with many collectors purchasing multiple boxes in hopes of obtaining rare editions.
The collaboration reflects a growing trend in sports merchandising, where collectibles and pop culture increasingly intersect with major sporting events.
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Alongside traditional jerseys and scarves, character-based merchandise is attracting younger audiences and expanding the appeal of tournament memorabilia.
While FIFA’s official tournament mascots remain the tournament’s recognized symbols, Labubu’s unexpected popularity has made it one of the defining fan trends of this World Cup.
From collector shelves to stadium stands, the quirky character has become a cultural talking point, highlighting how modern fandom now extends well beyond the action on the pitch.
