The countdown to the Junior Pan American Games ASU2025 took on a vibrant new dimension with the unveiling of its official mascots, Tito and Tika. The announcement was made during a grand ceremony at the Port of Asunción on February 10, where the two energetic wildcats were introduced as the lively symbols of the continent's premier youth sporting event.
The launch event was attended by several high-profile figures, including the President of the Republic of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, and other key officials such as the Minister of Sports César Ramírez Caje, the President of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee and International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Camilo Pérez López Moreira, General Director of ASU2025 Víctor Pecci, and Deputy General Director Larissa Schaerer.
“Today, we take another step toward the games that will be a milestone for our country,” said Pérez López Moreira. “Tito and Tika represent the energy, passion, and spirit of perseverance of our athletes. We hope that people will also feel represented and welcome them with open arms.”
Tito and Tika, inspired by the wildcats of the Paraguayan Chaco, embody the resilience, agility, and determination of the over 4,000 athletes who will compete in ASU2025. As mascots, they will serve as cultural ambassadors, connecting fans, athletes, volunteers, and delegations across the continent through their spirited personalities.
Larissa Schaerer emphasized the deeper meaning behind their selection: “The Official Representatives (mascots) connect us with our essence, our wildlife, and the relentless drive of every athlete who will come to ASU2025.”
The new mascots were ‘discovered’ by Tirika, the iconic mascot of the 2022 Odesur Games and the current representative of Team Paraguay. On a scouting mission across the country, Tirika found the perfect candidates in Tito and Tika—two wildcats who embody the attitude and excitement needed for ASU2025.
Tito is the responsible one, always alert and ready to step in when things get out of control. Tika, on the other hand, is mischievous and adventurous, constantly coming up with unpredictable but fun ideas. Together, they create the perfect balance—just like the athletes they represent.
Tito and Tika are modelled after the Leopardus guttulus, a small feline native to the Paraguayan Chaco, also known as the tiríka. This species is known for its intelligence, agility, and nocturnal nature, reflecting the characteristics of the young athletes preparing for ASU2025. Unfortunately, some species of the tiríka are endangered due to illegal capture for the fur trade, making the mascots a symbol of wildlife conservation as well.
With Tito and Tika leading the charge, ASU2025 is shaping up to be more than just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of youth, culture, and resilience. The games will take place from August 9 to 23, featuring over 4,000 athletes competing across 28 sports and 42 disciplines.
As the excitement builds, the official mascots will play a crucial role in engaging fans and spreading the spirit of ASU2025 throughout the continent. From social media appearances to community events, Tito and Tika are set to become beloved icons of this historic sporting event.
With their introduction, the road to ASU2025 is officially underway, bringing with it a new era of energy, passion, and unparalleled sporting excellence.