In a build-up marked by tension over weightier matters, Euro 2016 organisers face embarrassment of a different kind after it emerged their mascot shares its name with a popular sex toy.
Uefa is hoping for a sizeable income from merchandising featuring the Euro 2016 mascot, a small boy sporting a cape with superpowers called Super Victor.
But potential purchasers face a surprise when they search for the name of the toy online, with the results split between a sex toy available from sites such as Amazon and products featuring the tournament mascot.
The character was unveiled in November 2014, then nameless, at a France friendly, as the build-up to Euro 2016 began.
The public were then invited to vote in a social media poll, with Super Victor beating Driblou and Goalix to become the official name.
Uefa said the name was based on the idea of victory and refers to the super powers the small boy gained when he found a magic cape, boots and ball.
A spokesman added: “All we can say is that they [the sex toys] are not produced by Uefa.”
Guardian