The 2026 Children and Youth Olympic Games, set to take place in Prague this June, have revealed their official mascots: two sea lions named Bublinka and Hugo.

The animals were introduced to the public at the Prague Zoo by Tokyo water slalom silver medalist Lukáš Rohan.

The mascots will travel from the zoo to various sports venues across the city from June 21 to 25, 2026, accompanying young athletes and fans throughout the competitions.

Their aquatic nature reflects the games’ emphasis on movement and activity, particularly in water sports.

“The animal was selected by Prague City Hall in collaboration with the Prague Zoo. Local schools were involved in naming one of the mascots to raise awareness and encourage children to attend the games,” said Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda. Bublinka’s name, for example, was suggested by a student from Jan Masaryk Elementary School in Prague 2. Twenty schools submitted fifty proposals in total during this stage of the program.

Artists Petr Novák, known for his work in comics and illustration, and Martin Šinkovský, a screenwriter and author, designed the mascots and their communication concept. “The sea lion is sometimes clumsy, but it loves to move. The important thing is not to be the best, but to enjoy moving,” said Šinkovský.

Preparations for the Czech Republic’s largest multi-sports event are underway. City officials face logistical challenges, including securing accommodations for hundreds of young athletes, coaches, and support staff.

“Coordination with hotels, schools, and city districts is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly,” said Antonín Klecanda, Prague City Councilor for Education, Sports, and Leisure.

Athletes aged 12 to 16 will compete in 23 sports across 33 venues. Football matches will take place at the Sparta training center in Strahov, track and field events at Dukla stadium in Juliska, swimming at the Podolí area, and water slalom on the Troja canal. The Prague Exhibition Grounds will host the Olympic House and serve as the games’ central hub.

The opening ceremony will be held at Prague Eden and will be open to the public. Tickets go on sale on February 22, 2026, through the Czech Olympic Team website.

“We want every sports fan to experience something unique. The opening ceremony will echo the excitement of the global Olympics in Milan,” said Filip Šuman, president of the Children and Youth Olympics project.

The Children and Youth Olympics has been held annually since 2003 and offers a national-level competition for regional teams.

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