The smoky drink that’s ‘flying off shelves’ and uniting World Cup fans

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe drink that dates back to Indigenous people and the gauchos — South American cowboys — is sipped around the world (AP Photo/Kristin M. Hall)Yerba mate, a traditional caffeinated beverage from South America, has become a global symbol of connection and community, particularly evident at World Cup matches where fans share it from gourd cups.Its popularity has surged worldwide, endorsed by celebrated athletes such as Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, with Messi famously pictured with a mate cup and the World Cup trophy.The drink's cultural significance extends beyond its origins, with diverse preparation methods and vessels serving as cultural identifiers across South America, and its presence noted in Middle Eastern grocery stores due to historical popularity in Syria and Lebanon.The communal ritual of sharing mate is central to its appeal, fostering bonding and friendship, a practice observed among Argentinian fans in Kansas City during World Cup events.Characterised by a smoky, grassy, earthy flavour from traditionally smoked leaves, yerba mate provides an energising boost without the jitters often associated with coffee, and is correctly pronounced MAH-teh.In fullThe popular Argentine drink loved by Messi and World Cup fansThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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