The first-ever mascot for the Women’s Asian Cup football tournament, “Naara,” a Fire Horse, was unveiled on the Gold Coast as a symbol of courage ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 series,

The history-making moment for women’s football took place on International Volunteer Day, which welcomed more than 400 volunteers who will help bring the incredible event to life,,. The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 is scheduled to kick off on March 1, 2026, and will unite 12 of Asia and the Middle East’s top football nations, with matches being played on the Gold Coast, in Perth, and in Sydney.

AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Local Organising Committee Chief Operating Officer Sarah Walsh described the new mascot as a powerful symbol of courage, culture, and ambition. “Naara is a true fusion of cultures and a reminder that football is a truly global game,” Ms. Walsh said. She explained that Naara reflects the special nature of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup—an Asian tournament delivered in Australia—by being shaped by the richness of Asian tradition while deeply connected to Australia’s First Nations history,. Ms. Walsh added that the launch was especially meaningful because it was being celebrated with the volunteers, who will be the “heart and soul” of the tournament.

Economic and Sporting Impact for Queensland

The Gold Coast is set to host six matches at the Gold Coast Stadium in Robina. These fixtures include four group-stage matches and a Matildas match scheduled for March 5, 2026. The city’s hosting role is expected to generate an injection of $12.5 million into the Queensland economy.

Beyond the 2026 tournament, the Gold Coast will also host an important play-off double-header for qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil in 2027.

Tourism Minister Andrew Powell stated that by hosting the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, Queensland is proving it is delivering on its “Destination 2045” goal of becoming the events capital of the country. Minister Powell asserted that securing global tournaments such as this helps build a stronger economy and creates unforgettable experiences that showcase Queensland as the home of the holiday.

Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander anticipates that this unforgettable tournament is set to rank among the most prominent and record-breaking editions in the cup’s history. Minister Mander thanked the volunteers, noting that moments like these inspire the next generation of athletes and kids to get moving as Queensland paves the “green and gold runway to the 2032 Games”,

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci noted that International Volunteer Day was a fitting occasion to acknowledge the crucial role volunteers play in delivering football across the state. Mr. Cavallucci encouraged the community to take advantage of this opportunity to watch Asia’s best female footballers in action.