‘Don’t make this a thing’: Elmo throws support behind Team USA at World Cup

'Sesame Street' muppet Elmo posing for a portrait, on Jan. 24, 2011. (Victoria Will / AP)

Elmo has officially picked a side — and it’s Team USA.

In a light-hearted social media video, the beloved Sesame Street character declared his support for the U.S. men’s national soccer team at the FIFA World Cup.

Wearing a Team USA jersey, Elmo jokingly clarified that while he wants the Americans to win, he still “loves everybody,” adding a playful request for viewers not to turn his rooting interest into a controversy.

“Just to be clear, Elmo wants Team USA to win, OK?” the Sesame Street character said in a video posted to Instagram.

“Don’t make this a thing,” he joked.

The video comes after Elmo became the subject of online jokes during the NBA Finals when he wished both teams good luck rather than choosing a favourite.

This time, the furry red monster made his allegiance clear.

Elmo’s appearance is part of a broader partnership between Sesame Street and FOX Sports aimed at introducing younger audiences and families to the World Cup.

Sesame Street characters have been featured throughout tournament coverage, interviewing players and helping explain the game to new fans.

The timing couldn’t be better for Team USA. The Americans have enjoyed a strong start to Group D, defeating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 to secure six points from their first two matches.

The victories have already guaranteed the U.S. a place in the Round of 32, with one group-stage match remaining against Turkiye on Thursday.