EXPECT to be met (not in person though) by former and current soccer players such as David Beckham, Thierry Henry, Ronaldinho, Lamine Yamal and Son Heung-min, as part of the global McDonald’s FIFA World Cup™ Meal, giving fans the chance to enjoy their favourite menu items while celebrating the beautiful game.
Oh, don’t forget the popular and purple Grimace character!
Customers, just like you and I, who purchase the FIFA Meal (Large Big Mac Meal or 10 piece Chicken McNuggets Meal) get a FREE collectible cup for only R99.90 at any McD outlet nationwide.
The campaign was launched at the McD’s head office in Joburg- SA, amid the fanfare as guests were ‘instructed’ to come dressed in their favourite soccer jersey.
Each FIFA World Cup™ Meal includes one of six exclusive Soccer Legend Cups, featuring football icons and fan favourites including David Beckham, Thierry Henry, Ronaldinho, Lamine Yamal, Son Heung-min and McDonald’s beloved Grimace character.
These limited-edition collectibles bring football legends into the hands of South African fans and are set to become sought-after keepsakes throughout the tournament.
Yes, Bafana Bafana players do not feature having qualified for the 2026 WC after 16 years; but the excitement is palpable.
The campaign also introduces Sing Loud. Sing Proud, a uniquely South African initiative encouraging fans to rally behind the national team by proudly singing the national anthem in its entirety.
The campaign celebrates one of the country’s most powerful symbols of unity and encourages South Africans to come together in support of the team as they pursue football’s greatest prize.
“The national anthem is one of our country’s greatest assets and a true reflection of who we are as a nation,” says Keegan Alicks, Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald’s South Africa.
“As we support our national team on their journey to football’s biggest stage, we want every South African to feel confident to sing loudly and proudly, standing together behind the team and celebrating what unites us.”
The excitement extends to younger fans too. Every Happy Meal comes with one of 12 collectible Squishmallows, ensuring that children and collectors alike can share in the World Cup excitement.
Together, the FIFA Meals, Legend Cups and Squishmallows create a family-focused experience where everyone can be part of the celebration.
Beyond the meals and collectibles, McDonald’s SA is creating opportunities for fans to come together and celebrate at selected restaurants across the country, during the hosting of the WC watch parties, transforming restaurants into vibrant gathering spaces where families, friends and football supporters can enjoy the action together.
Details of participating restaurants and watch party events will be announced on McDonald’s South Africa social media platforms throughout the tournament.
To help fans connect more deeply with the anthem, customers can visit McDonald’s South Africa’s website to access the full national anthem and learn more about its meaning and significance.
“Football has an incredible ability to bring people together, and this campaign reflects that spirit,” adds Alicks.
“Whether you’re collecting a soccer Legend Cup, adding to your Squishmallows collection, gathering with loved ones at a watch party, or singing the national anthem before kick-off, we want to create delicious feel-good moments that unite South Africans and celebrate our shared passion for the game.”
Image supplied ( L to R- McD’s puppet, collectibles Ronaldinho, Lamine Yamal, Thierry Henry, David Beckham, Son Heung-min, and Grimace character- MCD FIFA Talent poster.)
