Members of a "star jury" helped select the character after more than 100 applications from both host nations, while fans also voted for their favourite.

The most popular entries were Spiky, two raccoons and a beetle, with organisers eventually opting to combine elements from leading designs into the final mascot.

Hedgehogs are described as being among the most popular animals in the mythology of both Belarus and Latvia.

"The 2021 IIHF mascot will become a symbol of Belarus and Latvia, a symbol of ice hockey," said Nikita Ustinovich, the director of designers DAB Creative Agency.

"We wanted the character to become a favourite of all fans and those who are indifferent to the sport of ice hockey. 

"The Hedgehog is our hero. 

"Comparing its character and qualities with ice hockey, we realised that the image of the hedgehog is very suitable for both of our national teams – hardworking, fast, agile, capable of standing up to the opponent at the ice rink when needed."

Members of the jury from Belarus included the country's ice hockey player Mikhail Grabovski and Darya Domracheva, a four-time Olympic champion in biathlon.

Hanna Huskova, the reigning Olympic champion in aerials skiing, and UFC fighter Andrei Arlovski were other members, alongside Belarus Ice Hockey Association chairman Gennadi Savilov.

Latvia was represented by figures including Latvian Ice Hockey Federation President Aigars Kalvitis and local Organising Committee head Edgars Buncis.

The Championships are scheduled to take place between May 7 and 23 next year, in host cities Minsk and Riga.