Taní, mascot of U-17 Women’s World Cup, visits Santiago

Santiago, DR.- At the UTESA Convention Center, the official mascot for the Under-17 World Football Tournament, Taní, was unveiled. The tournament will take place in Santiago and the capital in October.

Local authorities, including Mayor Ulises Rodríguez, highlighted the significance of hosting the event, promising that Santiago would make history with this FIFA-endorsed World Cup. Rodríguez commended engineer Manuel Estrella for his contributions to football in the Dominican Republic and assured that the city is ready to meet the challenge.

Engineer Manuel Estrella emphasized President Luis Abinader’s efforts to secure the hosting rights and praised the ongoing renovations at Cibao FC stadium and other local facilities. These upgrades include new grass, a giant screen, and LED lights, ensuring Santiago is well-prepared for the event.

The unveiling ceremony featured a lively performance by young Colombians Arnold Suárez and Breiner Becerra, who showcased their ball-handling skills to the song “Live is Life” by Opus.

Elizabeth Mena explained the choice of Taní, derived from Taíno, an endemic flower and the National Flower of Bayahíbe. The mascot symbolizes a call to protect the local flora and fauna.