After gathering suggestions on social media platforms, the three most-appealing ones were chosen by the Local Organising Committee in Poland and Sweden.

Fans had the opportunity to choose between the three options - Pax, Sticky and Sweski- for the mascot of the 28th International Handball Federation (IHF) Men’s World Championship. 

With the chosen name meaning "peace" in Latin, the mascot is a red sporty squirrel dressed in a branded dark blue jersey, white shorts and blue sneakers, wearing the number 23 on its back.

The name was a symbolic choice following Russia's military assault on Ukraine. 

The fans who took part in the survey "proved their awareness and sensitivity" to the current situation. 

Acting as a handball player, the squirrel was first presented on March 20, during the half-time break of the friendly match between the co-hosts Poland and Sweden.

The 2023 World Men's Handball Championship is expected to take place from January 11 to 29. 

The tournament will feature 32 teams from all over the world and 108 games.  

Among the participants are reigning champions Denmark, who already qualified for the tournament.

Katowice, Krakow, Plock, Gdansk, Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, Jönköping and Kristianstad will be hosting the event.