The official mascots of the Milan-Cortina Games are Tina and Milo—light-coloured and brown stoats—but Poland’s Pieroguszka plush toy has gone viral, US broadcaster NBC has reported.
Pieroguszka drew attention when the dumpling-shaped mascot was seen sitting alongside Polish athletes during the figure skating team event.
It first appeared during the rhythm dance portion of the event, according to NBC.
The plush toys are handmade by Luft, a small art studio in Katowice, southern Poland.
They are designed to resemble pierogi, traditional Polish dumplings filled with savory or sweet ingredients.
Pierogi are among Poland’s best-known dishes and are commonly stuffed with cheese and potatoes or ground meat.
According to Luft, the plush toy’s popularity surged after the figure skating event, and even rapper Snoop Dogg requested one.
(gs)
Source: nbcolympics.com, polskieradio24.pl