Team Poland’s viral mascot emerges as surprise fan favorite at 2026 Winter Olympics

Key Highlights

• It is a smiling plush toy shaped like a pierogi, which is a traditional Polish dumpling. The toy itself was created by Luft.
• Luft is a Katowice-based workshop in Poland that produces handmade plush items while supporting people with disabilities.
• Since appearing at the Olympics, demand for Pieroguszka has surged internationally and quickly sold out online. The mascot first gained attention when Polish figure skaters began celebrating their performances with it during competitions.
• In figure skating culture, fans often throw plush toys onto the ice after routines.
• In this case, a pierogi plushie made its way into Team Poland’s hands and quickly became part of their on-camera celebrations. The Polish delegation during the Opening Ceremony for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter GamesCredit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images“You have no idea (but you can guess) how moved and grateful we are, along with our entire pierogi team, to see Pieroguszka make it to the Olympics and win so many hearts around the world,” the Luft team wrote on Instagram. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMORE: 2026 Winter Olympics medal count, standings entering February 14Although Poland finished tenth in the team skating event, Pieroguszka has emerged as a viral sensation at the Games.