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Read / Eye on the news

Merlin the duck captivates fans outside Azteca Stadium during World Cup

The beloved bird became an unofficial mascot, spreading joy in Mexico City
byAssociated Press
Published: 12:00am, 13 Jul 2026
Length: 165 words
Merlin the duck captivates fans outside Azteca Stadium during World Cup

Merlin the duck, Mexico’s unofficial World Cup mascot, charmed fans but was barred from stadiums due to Fifa’s animal regulations. Photo: EPA

Difficulty: Summiteer (Level 3)

A popular character in this World Cup, Merlin the duck, showed up outside the football stadium in Mexico City and got a warm welcome.

The two-year-old duck wore a green Mexico jersey and helped his family sell drinks around the city. He became a well-known sight in the capital.

Merlin walked around the streets of Mexico City during Mexico’s first win. Then, he went to the presidential palace.

On June 25, Merlin was granted access to the Azteca Stadium grounds to film a television segment.

However, he could not remain for the match, as Fifa regulations prohibit animals from entering venues in order to safeguard their well-being.

“He’s become our unofficial mascot for Mexico and the World Cup,” said Daniel Krauze, a fan outside the stadium.

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