Overview
- Merlín the duck and owner Karla Ivette Gómez were received by President Claudia Sheinbaum at the National Palace on Monday and posed for photos during the daily press conference.
- The bird rose to national fame after videos of it wearing a mini Mexico jersey went viral and were shared by Mexico's national football team.
- Gómez said she will file for trademark protection of Merlín's name and images and that FIFA named the duck a 'Botschafter' or ambassador, a claim reported from the owner but not independently confirmed by the coverage.
- Sheinbaum told reporters the government will help the family turn Merlín's notoriety into an improvement in their living conditions and provide support tied to the duck's publicity.
- Street vending in Mexico City is often low paid so viral moments can bring short‑term income and branding chances; readers should watch for the intellectual property office's trademark outcome and any formal confirmation from FIFA or details on what government aid the family receives.