 |
| (Image Source: Orange Magazine PH/McDonald's Philippines/Philippine Football Federation) |
Football fans attending the Tri-Nation Friendlies match between the Philippines and Myanmar, which ended in a 5–1 victory for the Philippines, were treated to a special surprise last June 9, 2026 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila. During halftime, McDonald’s beloved Grimace took to the field, delighting the crowd with his signature charm, playful antics, and energetic dance moves.
McDonald’s Philippines’ support for the Tri-Nation Friendlies forms part of its broader campaign celebrating the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This includes limited-edition FIFA™ collectible cups featuring football legends David Beckham, Ronaldinho Gaúcho, Thierry Henry, Son Heung-min, Lamine Yamal, and McDonald’s very own iconic and legendary Grimace. Also part of the McDonald’s FIFA experience is the FIFA World Cup 26™ Meal, a 6-pc. Chicken McNuggets paired with the new Big Mac Sauce, the new A&W Root Beer McFloat, and the beloved McDonald’s World Famous Fries. Grimace’s appearance is part of McDonald’s Philippines’ support for the Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) at the pocket-friendly tournament with Myanmar and Guam as it prepares for upcoming competitions. “Just as the rest of the crowd cheered for the Philippine Men’s National Football Team, Grimace was right there cheering along with Filipino football fans. At McDonald’s, we believe football has a unique way of bringing communities together and spreading feel-good cheer, and we’re excited to support opportunities that allow more Filipinos to celebrate the sport and rally behind our national team,” said McDonald's Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Ada Almendras-Lazaro.
Beyond his halftime appearance, Grimace delighted fans by posing for selfies and videos throughout the event. Attendees also enjoyed some of McDonald’s fan-favorite food, participated in interactive mini-games, and had the chance to win exclusive merchandise through raffles. These activities were part of McDonald’s efforts to make the home match an even more memorable and enjoyable celebration for Filipino football supporters. “The PFF is delighted to have McDonald’s as one of our major partners for this tri-nation friendlies. It has been a while since we hosted a home game and I am sure the whole football community is very excited. Having McDonald’s as a partner has definitely added to that excitement,” said Philippine Football Federation (PFF) President John Anthony Gutierrez.
Fans can enjoy the excitement beyond the pitch and beyond the stadium. Enjoy FIFA World Cup™ experience in more ways through limited-edition collectibles and new food offers available in McDonald’s stores nationwide, on the McDonald’s App, and via McDelivery.
