Merlin, the Viral Duck Who Became the New Star of the 2026 World Cup

JAKARTA - Merlin is not a player. He is also not an official mascot. However, the two-year-old duck suddenly became the center of attention when Mexico celebrated victory over South Africa at the 2026 World Cup.

Based on a report by Gulf News, quoted Tuesday, June 16, Merlin was seen taking part in the celebrations in the streets of Mexico City, Thursday, June 11. He was wearing a Mexico national team mini jersey and matching socks.

As fans filled the streets with green and gold, Merlin's photo spread across social media. The duck's picture quickly went viral and garnered millions of views.

Before he was popular on the internet, Merlin was already known in the historic center of Mexico City. Almost every weekend, he accompanied his nanny, Carla Gómez, and her son, Cristian, selling bottled water and soft drinks from a small cart.

They used to be around the Palace of Fine Arts, Alameda Central, and Zócalo.

Merlin was originally a gift for Cristian. Since then, the two have been inseparable. The duck often follows Cristian and attracts the attention of passers-by.

"We don't like leaving him alone at home; we like him with us. He's our baby," Gómez told AP reporter Nayara Batschke, as quoted by Gulf News.

"He's a baby, the only heir, everything belongs to me and now he's an idol," he said.

Gómez admitted that he did not expect Merlin to go viral because of the World Cup.

"Merlin was previously famous for selling bottled water," he said. "However, we didn't expect this."

Merlin: The Viral Dancing Duck in Mexico Jersey (Made with Grok) 🇲🇽🦆❤️ https://t.co/IVLkBiHk42 pic.twitter.com/8Lo39NuYCK

— ℂ𝕣𝕪𝕡𝕥𝕠𝔼𝕞𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤🤍 (@CryptoEmpressX) June 15, 2026

Gómez now expresses full support for Mexico at the World Cup.

"Mexico, we're with you," he said. "And Merlin is your number one fan."

Merlin's popularity did not stop at social media. According to the report, FIFA also paid attention.

On Monday, Gómez and Merlin were invited to meet the tournament organizers for an official photo session and advertising.

Merlin's popularity has skyrocketed, from a local duck that used to accompany the sale to one of the most attention-grabbing supporters of the host.

Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with Canada and the United States. This is the third time Mexico has hosted after the 1970 and 1986 editions.