McDonald’s x Squishmallows Is Our Dream World Cup Collab

There are some collaborations that feel inevitable once somebody thinks of them. Peanut butter and chocolate. Crocs and literally every brand on earth. McDonald’s and Squishmallows.

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For the 2026 FIFA World Cup, McDonald’s has apparently looked at the biggest sporting event on the planet and concluded that what people really want is a collectible plush toy in a tiny soccer jersey. And honestly? They’re absolutely right. That’s the kind of problem-solving we love to see.

McDonald’s is reportedly bringing Squishmallows back to Happy Meals as part of a limited-edition FIFA World Cup promotion. According to reports, each Happy Meal will include a collectible plush character dressed in a soccer jersey, with rumors suggesting the U.S. release could begin around June 9 and feature more than 20 different Squishmallows to collect.

Naturally, the prospect of more than 20 different characters means plenty of people are about to discover they care a lot more about Happy Meal toys than they ever thought they would.

Why Squishmallows Were Basically Made For Happy Meals

Happy Meal toys have always lived or died by one simple question: do people actually want them? Squishmallows pass that test with flying colors. Unlike the tiny plastic toys many of us immediately lost under the back seat of a car, Squishmallows already have a massive collector community and a habit of selling out all by themselves.

They’ve also managed to become one of the few collectibles that appeal to pretty much everyone. Kids love them. Adults love them. Somewhere along the way, these round plush creatures stopped being toys and became fully accepted emotional support items for an entire generation.

The Real Winners Here Are Collectors

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will generate no shortage of merchandise. Jerseys, scarves, commemorative cups, keychains… you know the drill. But a tiny Squishmallow in a soccer kit feels like a whole different ballgame entirely.

That’s what makes this collaboration surprisingly smart. The World Cup brings the audience. Squishmallows bring the collectors. McDonald’s gets to sit in the middle and watch people suddenly become very invested in finding all 20-plus characters.

And if the internet has taught us anything, it’s that nobody casually owns just one Squishmallow. Which means these Happy Meals may end up being less about lunch and more about the thrill of the hunt. The burgers are just along for the ride.