“It is why we have launched this petition and travelled to Parliament, the home of fairness and decency, to get this decision overturned.”
Wellington Phoenix head of media Brenton Vannisselroy said the reason behind Tāma’s exclusion was that the mascot race is entirely made up of Wellington-based mascots.
“Our mascot Nixie has invited their friends from Wellington to provide some entertainment in between the two matches at Sky Stadium tomorrow,” he said.
“Temu Nixie, or whatever Auckland FC’s mascot is supposed to be, wasn’t invited to the event as, the last time we looked, it is not a mascot for any of our city’s teams.”
Auckland FC mascot Tāma the Kingfisher has been issued a ban from Sky Stadium. Photo / Supplied
Vannisselroy said Tāma was free to “watch Wellington’s mascots from the stands tomorrow” but summarised with one final jab.
“Sorry Auckland, this is one thing your money can’t buy.”
The Wellington Phoenix women’s side kickoff at 4pm against Canberra United. The now-controversial mascot race will then take place, with the grudge match between the hosts and Auckland FC starting at 7pm.