From Street Celebrations to Viral Sensation
Merlin’s journey to fame began on the streets of Mexico City. After Mexico’s commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in the tournament opener on 11 June, jubilant fans flooded the capital’s Reforma avenue. Amid the sea of green shirts and flags, a costumed duck waddled through the crowds, instantly capturing hearts. Videos of the duck, dressed in a miniature Mexico jersey, went viral, turning Merlin into an overnight celebrity and the unofficial mascot of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Presidential Seal of Approval
On Monday, Merlin’s unconventional stardom reached new heights. The duck waddled onto the stage at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s regular morning press conference, taking a seat typically reserved for ministers and officials. Unfazed by the flashes of cameras and the buzz of reporters, Merlin let out a few quacks before settling in.
“We feel very honoured to be here with the president, it is an honour for us to stand before you and for the whole world to see the beautiful side of Mexico,” said Karla Gómez, Merlin’s owner.
President Sheinbaum, clearly delighted by the feathered guest, embraced the moment as a reflection of Mexican culture. “Today we brought the family that has Merlin the duck as their pet, because he has been a symbol of the World Cup, a symbol of what Mexican families stand for, of who we are as Mexican families, and that is above all else, it is what the world is seeing from Mexico today,” she said.
Merlin’s New Life: Tacos, Trademarks, and a Mission
Behind the viral fame is a family striving for a better future. Gómez, who runs a street-side beverage business, described Merlin as the “boss” of her small enterprise. She hopes to register Merlin as a trademark, using his newfound fame to support her family, particularly her eldest son, who lives with a mental illness. President Sheinbaum confirmed that the family would receive assistance, though details were not disclosed.
The two-year-old duck, a gift from a customer, has a balanced diet but is allowed a pork taco as a Sunday treat. He wears custom shoes to protect his webbed feet during his beloved walks. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 unfolds, Merlin remains a symbol of joy and resilience, embodying the vibrant spirit of the co-host nation.
Key Takeaways
- Unofficial World Cup mascot Merlin the duck met Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum at a press conference.
- Merlin rose to fame after being spotted in street celebrations following Mexico’s opening victory over South Africa.
- The duck’s owner, Karla Gómez, aims to trademark Merlin’s image to help her family, including a son with a mental illness.
- President Sheinbaum pledged government assistance for the family, calling Merlin a symbol of Mexican values.
Quick Facts: Merlin the Duck
Age: 2 years old
Owner: Karla Gómez, street vendor
Diet: Balanced, with a pork taco on Sundays
Special Accessory: Shoes to protect his webbed feet
Fame: Became viral after Mexico vs. South Africa match on 11 June
Trademark Plans: Gómez seeks to register Merlin as a brand
Source: The Guardian
