Embedded in a vibrant African-themed live TV show that was broadcast nationwide, Zakumi today made his official debut in front of an audience of millions on South Africa's primetime SABC Coca-Cola Soccer Zone.

The Official Mascot, a leopard, has been designed and produced exclusively in the host country. The name is a composition of "ZA", standing for South Africa, and "kumi" translating into "10" in various languages across Africa. Inspired by his football idols, Zakumi has dyed his hair green as he felt it would be the perfect camouflage against the green of the football pitch.

"Zakumi" represents the people, geography and spirit of South Africa, personifying in essence the 2010 FIFA World Cup. We are certain we will have a lot of fun with him in the lead-up to and during the FIFA Confederations Cup and the FIFA World Cup", said FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke.

The tradition of the Official FIFA World Cup Mascot has been in place for more than 40 years. World Cup Willie was the first-ever FIFA World Cup Mascot, invented for the 1966 tournament in England. Official Mascots have come to play a more and more important role in the FIFA World Cup as with their infectiously positive attitude, they have over the years added to the atmosphere of each competition in their own unique way.