Claudia Sheinbaum, president of Mexico, welcomes Merlin the duck, the national team’s acclaimed mascot at the 2026 World Cup
The renowned Merlin duck, who has become the unofficial mascot of the next 2026 World Cup, was given a special reception last Monday (22) by the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum. Wearing the green uniform of the national team, the animal was present at a press conference, accompanied by its owner, Karla Ivette Gómez, and his relatives.
The bird gained enormous popularity on digital platforms after being spotted strolling among excited Mexican fans. This rapid rise from an online phenomenon to a symbol recognized by FIFA and the Mexico national team itself demonstrates the contemporary strength of the internet in shaping national identities and representations in record time.
During the event, Karla Ivette Gómez announced her intention to formalize Merlín’s name and visual representation as a registered trademark. According to their statements, the procedures for this registration began on the same Monday.
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The Mexican head of state justified the invitation to the family for “humanitarian” considerations, assuring that the government administration will provide support to improve the living conditions of those involved.
Merlin remained calm and seated throughout the entire presentation session, with Cristian, his 14-year-old caregiver, at his side.
This is the third duck to be taken in by the Gómez family. Karla explained that Merlin was given to them by a client after the previous bird’s death, and his name was a tribute to the legendary wizard Merlin, from the King Arthur saga.
