Meet Merlin, The Viral Duck Wearing A Soccer Jersey And Custom Socks At 2026 World Cup

FIFA World Cup fever has swept across the planet, especially in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament's trio of host countries. Mexico, in particular, has attracted attention for some patriotic pets. First, there's Osito, a rescue pup "living his best life" at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City. 

And then there's Merlin, a duck who has waddled — wearing cute custom-made socks and a Mexico soccer jersey — into the hearts of soccer fans both in Mexico City and around the world. In a sweet video on YouTube, street vendor Carla Gómez explained where she got the quirky little quacker: "Merlin came into my life two years ago. He was gifted to me by a client who I sell bottled water to."

Gómez told the Associated Press that Merlin has long been accompanying her on her daily rounds selling water and soda. "We don't like to leave him alone at home; we like him to be with us. He's our baby," she said. "He's the baby, the sole heir to all my possessions and now an idol."

On June 22, 2026, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum held her usual daily news briefing at the National Palace in Mexico City. What made this particular press conference more than a little unusual was the presence of a duck. Dressed in his tiny soccer jersey and FIFA scarf, Merlin was the undeniable star of the morning's proceedings.

Carla Gómez brought her sons, Carlos and Cristian, to the briefing, alongside the family's internet-famous duck. She expressed to the Associated Press her joy at how soccer fans have embraced Merlin, saying, "It has been the best thing that has happened to us in this life." Rounding out the duck's busy Monday, Merlin and his owner also met with officials from FIFA for photos and to shoot an advertisement. Merlin is clearly adapting to his newfound celebrity like a duck to water.

Want to read about other pets who have captured the public's attention? Check out the highest-earning celebrity pets — the amount each one earns per sponsored post on social media will leave you speechless — and Taylor Swift's cats, who lead amazing lives.