Video - Japan have revealed their RWC mascot... prepare yourselves

Ren-G, the official mascots of Rugby World Cup 2019 were unveiled by the Japan Rugby 2019 Organising Committee at a special event in Tokyo on Friday.

The mascots, which are based on traditional storytelling characters grounded in ancient Japanese culture.

Credit: Rugby World Cup 2019

Introducing Ren-G, the official mascot for #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/95BKmf1chO

— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) January 26, 2018

It’s hoped the distinctive parent and child combination of Ren-G is set to be a big hit with fans, with mascots playing an important part in the sporting and entertainment culture in Japan, often attracting icon status.

Japan Rugby Organising Committee CEO Akira Shimazu said: “Ren-G has a very Japanese feel to it. When it was decided that Japan would play host to the Rugby World Cup, which is a first for both Japan and Asia, it brought the five values of rugby – Integrity, Passion, Solidarity, Discipline, and Respect – together with the ancient spirit of Japan and our mascot was born.

“As Ren-G embodies the values of rugby, they will spread the spirit of rugby from Japan to Asia and to the rest of the world and will help us with building excitement towards Rugby World Cup 2019.”

World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont added: “We are delighted to welcome Ren-G to the Rugby World Cup family. It is fantastic to see rugby’s values and Japan’s traditions come together and we look forward to following their journey as they travel the length and breadth of the country sharing the spirit of rugby.”

Credit: Rugby World Cup 2019

Introducing Ren-G, the official mascot for #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/PpIDvJ4uUq

— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) January 26, 2018