As the 2026 World Cup brings soccer fever to streets across México, the United States, and Canada, one unexpected ambassador has captured the imagination of fans in Mexico City: Merlin, a two-year-old duck who strolls through the capital in a Mexican national team jersey. Accompanied by his owner, Carla Gómez, Merlin has become a viral sensation, drawing crowds of curious locals and international visitors alike.
Gómez, who sells drinks from a cart to make her living, takes Merlin everywhere. “I wanted to keep him by my side at all times,” she explains. Their daily walks through tourist-heavy neighborhoods have turned into impromptu photo ops, with people stopping traffic to snap a picture of the feathered fan in his tricolor kit and matching socks.
A Duck with Local Tastes
Merlin is no ordinary pet. Beyond his distinctive style, he has developed a taste for one of México’s most beloved street foods: carnitas tacos. Gómez recounts how Merlin eagerly enjoys these savory pork tacos amid the urban bustle, a detail that endears him even more to the city’s residents. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of a global tournament, local flavors and traditions remain central to the experience.
This isn’t the first time an animal has become a World Cup icon. Soccer history is filled with memorable mascots, from Paul the octopus, who famously predicted match outcomes during the 2010 tournament in South Africa, to Pickles the dog, who in 1966 found the stolen World Cup trophy hidden under a hedge in London, allowing England to receive the award after their only title win. Merlin’s story adds a distinctly Mexican chapter to that lineage, one rooted in the everyday life of the capital.
The 2026 World Cup is a historic event, co-hosted by three nations for the first time. While stars like Lionel Messi and Karol G have drawn attention—Messi recently opened up about his emotional goal celebration—Merlin offers a more intimate connection to the tournament. His presence in iconic spots like the Zócalo and the streets of Coyoacán has given the World Cup a human, grounded face, one that resonates with the collective emotion of a country devoted to its national team.
Gómez’s decision to bring Merlin along on her workdays has transformed every walk into an event. “He stops traffic,” she says with a laugh. “People want to take photos, ask questions, and share a moment with him.” The duck’s calm demeanor and willingness to pose for pictures have made him a beloved figure, a symbol of pure joy that cuts through the intensity of the competition.
As the tournament progresses, Merlin’s fame continues to grow. He has been featured in local news and social media, with fans dubbing him the unofficial mascot of the 2026 World Cup in México. His story is a testament to how unexpected heroes can emerge from the most ordinary circumstances, reminding us that sometimes the biggest stars are the ones we least expect.
For those following the World Cup, Merlin’s adventures offer a welcome break from the high-stakes drama on the field. They also highlight the unique character of Mexico City, a metropolis where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Whether he’s enjoying tacos or strutting through the streets, Merlin embodies the spirit of a city that knows how to celebrate life, even during a global event.
In a tournament filled with billion-dollar athletes and corporate sponsorships, Merlin the duck stands out as a reminder of what truly matters: community, joy, and the simple pleasures of sharing a meal—or a walk—with those we love. As Gómez puts it, “He’s not just a pet; he’s part of the family.” And for now, he’s part of the World Cup family too.
