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World Cup Lion

Mounted Small, World Cup Willie was the first-ever FIFA World Cup mascot, created for the 1966 FIFA World Cup hosted in England. The mascot is an anthropomorphic lion, a national symbol of the United Kingdom, wearing a Union Jack jersey with the words "WORLD CUP". The poster in the image is the official poster for the 1966 FIFA World Cup, which took place in England from July 11 to 30, 1966. The tournament was won by England, who defeated West Germany 4-2 in the final at Wembley Stadium. The mascot was designed by freelance children's book illustrator Reg Hoye and is considered a pioneer for the use of mascots in major sporting competitions.