The mascot’s launch followed a week of activities in which the mascot made a series of unofficial visits all over Brazil, according to FIFA.

I’m sure he will inspire many young football fans in Brazil and all over the world with the great passion which he has for the sport and for his country.' 'The mascot will play a key ambassadorial role in the next two years. 'I’m delighted to welcome such an important member to the 2014 team,' said Ronaldo. It’s one of only two species of armadillo that can roll into a ball. The three-banded armadillo is indigenous to Brazil. World Cup organisers launched the mascot as part of Brazilian broadcaster TV Globo’s weekly Fantástico entertainment show on Sunday, where he was welcomed by Brazilian football legend Ronaldo, who is a member of the organizing committee’s management board.

It will be named Amijubi, Fuleco or Zuzeco after a public vote. (ATR) The three-banded armadillo is the official mascot of the Brazil 2014 World Cup.