World Cup duck Merlin takes center stage at Mexico briefing
Why it matters: The viral mascot’s appearance drew backlash from families of the missing and warnings from wildlife advocates.
Merlin, the pet duck that became an unofficial mascot of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City, appeared Monday at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning news briefing. Wearing a Mexico jersey, the duck sat before reporters while owner Karla Gómez described her family’s street-vending business and said Merlin’s fame had helped them. Sheinbaum posed for photos with the family and said they would receive assistance, without giving details. The appearance quickly stirred criticism online, as relatives of missing people have been seeking a meeting with Sheinbaum since the tournament began. A wildlife rehabilitation unit in Pachuca also warned that viral pet fame can spur impulse buying and abandonment.