Poland's unofficial mascot, known as Pieroguszka, has become a sensation at the Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. The plush dumpling, accompanying the Polish figure skating team, has attracted the attention of global media and American rapper Snoop Dogg. The star, serving as an ambassador and correspondent for NBC, received his own copy of the mascot after a specially arranged meeting with the Polish team, sparking a wave of enthusiasm on social media.

Snoop Dogg with Pieroguszka

American rapper Snoop Dogg received the plush mascot from the Polish team after being enchanted by it during television coverage.

Production with a Message

The mascots are sewn in Katowice by a social cooperative employing people with disabilities, adding a charitable dimension to the campaign.

Global Viral Reach

Photos with the smiling dumpling became a hit on Instagram and TikTok, promoting Polish culinary culture in a fun way.

Gift for Iga Świątek

The figure skating team announced that a special copy of the Pieroguszka will be given to WTA ranking leader Iga Świątek.

During the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, the Polish figure skating team introduced the world to an unusual national symbol – the Pieroguszka. It is a plush cushion measuring 45x30 cm, whose shape references the traditional Polish dish. Although the official mascots of the event are the stoats Tina and Milo, it was the smiling plush toy that stole the show during television broadcasts. Representatives of the Polish team emphasize that the mascot is meant to bring smiles and positive energy, a goal undoubtedly achieved considering its online reach.

The biggest stir was caused by the interest expressed by rapper Snoop Dogg, representing NBC. The musician publicly appealed to have a copy sent to the USA, which ultimately led to a meeting with the Polish team. The operation to hand over the gift was a logistical challenge, involving the leadership of the Polish Olympic mission. Pieroguszka also has an ethical and social dimension – the mascots are made in Katowice, at the Honolu Social Cooperative, which runs workshops for people with disabilities. Thanks to the Olympic promotion, the cooperative is now receiving inquiries about the product even from the United States. The tradition of throwing mascots onto the ice after figure skating performances dates back to the 1980s. This custom has become an integral part of the discipline, allowing fans to express appreciation for athletes by decorating the ice surface with plush gifts. Although the figure skaters placed 10th in the team competition, their impact on the Games' atmosphere is considered unprecedented. The Pieroguszka symbol will also be given to top Polish tennis player Iga Świątek as a special gift from the Olympians. The mascot phenomenon has shown how unofficial symbols can effectively build soft power and promote national culture in a modern and accessible way for a global audience.

„Snoop Dogg reached out to us through someone. He wanted to receive a Pieroguszka because he liked it so much on TV.” — Jekaterina Kurakowa

45 cm — is the width of the famous plush Pieroguszka

Mentioned People

  • Snoop Dogg — American rapper and NBC correspondent at the Winter Olympics.
  • Jekaterina Kurakowa — Polish figure skater competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
  • Iga Świątek — Polish tennis player who is to receive the mascot as a gift.
  • Kacper Tomasiak — Polish athlete, triple medalist at the ongoing Games.