Meet Osito, The Rescue Pup 'Living His Best Life' At The World Cup In Mexico City

By Sheri Radford
Poodle mix wearing a Mexico jersey, hat, and sunglasses The Associated Press/X

Can dogs get soccer fever? It would seem so. FIFA World Cup mania has been sweeping the planet since June 11, 2026, when the 23rd tournament began in the three host countries of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. 

One feel-good story that has captured the public's attention focuses on Osito, an 8-year-old rescue dog in Mexico City whose owner dresses him up in Mexico gear and drives him through the crowds of soccer fans on a cargo bicycle. "More than a dog, he's my daily companion," Jorge Rangel, the petite poodle mix's owner, told AP News. The chic pup never fails to attract attention in his Mexico jersey, hat, and sunglasses. Rangel, a die-hard soccer fan, has been delighted by the public's response to Osito, saying, "It exceeded all my expectations."

A video of the patriotic pair shared by the Associated Press on X has racked up more than 290,000 views so far. "Every World Cup needs an unexpected icon. This year, it's Osito 🐶❤️🇲🇽," one netizen commented, and another noted, "Osito is officially the coolest fan at the World Cup, that dog has more style than me." One admirer of the cute canine went even further, writing, "Osito already living his best life honestly, that dog has more style than all of us combined."

A devoted soccer fan's love for his little dog

Poodle mix wearing a Mexico jersey, hat, and sunglasses while sitting in the back of a cargo bicycle The Associated Press/X

"Cute dog is getting more attention than players," wrote one viewer. Some people might not understand why anyone would decide to dress up a dog and cycle him around outside World Cup matches, but Rangel is confident that other pet lovers understand him and the affection he feels for Osito. 

Rangel shared in the video, "I am totally in love with him. It has been wonderful. Those who have and love dogs and other animals, cats, etc., will understand it." Rangel also revealed that he dreams of one day being able to take the little dog inside the soccer stadium. "I hope we can fulfill that dream and celebrate goals together. That would be another dream come true. And if we could be right down by the field, even better, supporting our national team."

Want to see more dogs looking cute in their clothing? Check out this tiny senior pup modeling his straw hat (he's ready for the farmer's market), and these two golden retriever-German shepherd mixes wearing raincoats. Or, if you'd prefer to see an adorably stubborn dog who won't put on his clothing, check out this Bernedoodle puppy who refuses to put his coat on and goes into full toddler mode.

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