Merlin the Duck Steals Show at President Sheinbaum's Mexico Briefing

Ekhbary News Agency

MEXICO CITY —

Merlín the duck, famously known as Mexico’s unofficial World Cup mascot, unequivocally stole the spotlight during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Monday morning news briefing in Mexico City. Waddling into the room adorned in the green jersey of Mexico’s national soccer team and a FIFA tie, Merlín took a prominent seat facing reporters, instantly becoming the undeniable star of the event.

Merlin's Family: A Glimpse into Working-Class Life

Merlín himself fielded no questions; his owner, Carla Gómez, a dedicated street vendor selling water and soft drinks, handled all inquiries. Gómez introduced her family with a palpable sense of pride and determination, positioning them as emblematic of countless other working-class Mexicans. She asserted, "We are the working part" of Mexico. Seated beside the lectern, with Merlín at the very center, were her sons, Carlos, 22, and Cristian, 14, who, it's fair to say, "doesn’t rest after school" and diligently assists her daily by selling goods and carrying packages.

The Duck as "Boss" and Local Celebrity

Cristian affectionately described Merlín as "the boss of our little business. He’s the one who follows behind us, making sure we’re working and doing things the right way." The family meticulously manages Merlín's diet, providing him with small fish, crickets, and, as a Sunday treat, even a meat taco. Gómez expressed profound emotion regarding how Merlín had captivated the hearts of World Cup fans, proclaiming, "It has been the best thing that has happened to us in this life." This isn't their first brush with fame, for what it's worth; Gómez noted that other ducks the family had owned, including Bruna, who wore tennis shoes, also achieved local celebrity status in Mexico City’s historic center.

Gómez firmly believes their family went viral because people recognized in them "a hard-working family, a family that gets up every day to make ends meet." The president eventually had to curtail the question-and-answer session to advance the news conference, but not before attempting to pet Merlín and posing for a memorable photo with the family.