Paraguay's National University Unveils World Cup Mascots: A Donkey and a Calf
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The National University of Asunción (UNA) in Paraguay has presented two mascots, a baby donkey named Solano and a calf named Alfarito, to celebrate the 2026 World Cup.
- Solano, named after the month of his birth, wears a red, white, and blue coat, while Alfarito is named in honor of the Paraguayan national team's coach.
- Visitors can see the mascots at the university's veterinary science faculty during specific hours, following biosecurity measures.
The National University of Asunción (UNA) in Paraguay is embracing the excitement of the 2026 World Cup with the introduction of two endearing mascots. From the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, the university unveiled Solano, a baby donkey, and Alfarito, a calf, both sporting the colors of the national team, the Albirroja.
Solano, born in May, was named in honor of the "Month of the Homeland." He resides at the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences' equine division and has been outfitted with a special coat in red, white, and blue to keep him warm. Dr. Katya Miranda described Solano as the "sensation" of UNA, with students frequently visiting to take photos with the young donkey.
The calf, Alfarito, is named in tribute to the Paraguayan national team's coach, Gustavo Alfaro, recognizing his work with the Albirroja. This purebred Brown Swiss calf lives in the dairy cattle division. Professor Dr. Maiko Argüello noted that Alfarito is the first calf born through natural mating at the facility, a significant achievement for the division.
Both Solano and Alfarito are available for visits at their respective divisions between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Visitors must adhere to biosecurity measures to ensure the animals' well-being. The university's initiative adds a unique, local flavor to the global excitement surrounding the upcoming World Cup.
Él es mi tiqui
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.