Riku One Announcement
With only 200 days left until the highly anticipated World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25, we're thrilled to unveil a major milestone in the event preparations: meet Riku One, the official mascot! This exciting moment marks a giant leap forward in the countdown to what promises to be the most spectacular sporting event of 2025, as Tokyo gears up to once again take center stage on the world’s biggest athletic platform.
Created in collaboration with World Athletics' media partner and WCH Tokyo 25 principal supporter, TBS Television, Riku One is a mascot full of energy and charm, inspired by Japan’s beloved Shiba Inu. Known for its agility, resilience, and loyalty, the Shiba Inu embodies the spirit of competition that will define the championships. The name Riku One was selected through a nationwide vote, allowing fans from all over Japan to play a part in shaping this iconic figure. With 7,804 votes, Riku One triumphed, followed closely by Sorashiba with 7,454 votes and Pochichi with 3,048 votes. A total of 18,306 votes were cast between January 17 and February 11, proving that the excitement for Tokyo 25 is already in full swing.
This unveiling marks the start of an electrifying new chapter in the lead-up to WCH Tokyo 25. As the clock ticks down, Tokyo is preparing to welcome 2,000 of the world’s best athletes, all competing for glory in what will undoubtedly be a global celebration of sport. Riku One will be the face of the championships, fueling passion and enthusiasm among fans, while embodying the heart and soul of athletics.
Four years after the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, the city is set to shine once again, filling the stands with energy and excitement. Tokyo is ready to host the World Athletics Championships for the third time, becoming the only city in history to do so. This 20th edition will be a game-changer, not only for Japan but for the entire world of athletics.
With Riku One leading the charge, the countdown to Tokyo 25 is officially on. The world is watching, and every moment of this journey will be nothing short of sugoi (amazing)!
Riku One blends the Japanese word for athletics, "riku", with the concept of "one" — symbolising everything from first place to a single second, a single step, and the unity of athletes and fans around the world. It also carries a nod to the sound of a dog's bark—‘wan’ or ‘one’ in Japanese—adding a touch of fun and personality to the spirit of the championships. Let the games begin!
Don't miss out on the biggest global sporting event of the year! Grab your ticket to history before it's too late! Click here to find your seat https://tokyo25-lp.pia.jp/index_en.html
Mascot Animation
Riku One, the official mascot of WCH Tokyo 25 makes their much-awaited debut in Tokyo!
‘Making-of’ video
Watch the ‘making-of’ video below to see the workshop where the children contributed their own unique mascot design.
