Merlin the duck steals the spotlight at President Sheinbaum’s news briefing

Mexico’s Unconventional Mascot Steals Show at President’s News Briefing, Alongside Inspiring Street-Vendor Family [BODY]

MEXICO CITY — Clad in Mexico’s iconic green soccer jersey and a FIFA tie, a duck named Merlín waddled into the room during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Monday briefing, instantly winning over reporters and the media.

Owned by street vendor Carla Gómez, Merlín has become synonymous with Mexico’s unofficial World Cup mascot. As a symbol of national pride, he captured attention—and hearts—throughout the President’s press event.

While President Sheinbaum faced questions about national policies, Merlín remained an attentive audience member, albeit with helpful guidance from Carla Gómez. Gómez, a long-standing resident of Mexico City’s historic district, uses her food cart to support her family, and she sees Merlín as a key contributor to their venture’s success.

Her sons, Carlos and Cristian, walk alongside Merlín each day, helping to carry supplies. Her youngest son, Cristian, works tirelessly to ensure the family’s tasks are completed efficiently. Even the youngest, Cristian, has grown to depend on Merlín’s companionship, with both of them sharing in tasks like delivering packages during the day.

Though not known for answering questions, Merlín is an eager participant in their business. Gómez has even been known to train him to stay close and keep their hustle on track, reinforcing the family’s identity as hardworking, persistent, and united. Together, the foursome has become a living image of determination and resilience for those around them.

A key aspect of their daily routine is Merlín’s diet, which includes fresh fish, crickets, and—Sunday being a special day—a meat taco. Gómez’s commitment to his well-being underscores how important he is to their livelihood and ties the family closer together as a working unit.

When Merlín went viral during the World Cup, Gómez expressed surprise but deep satisfaction that people could see the heart behind their family’s story. “We are a family trying to make ends meet, just like so many people across Mexico,” she shared.

Though Merlín and his family are not the only local celebrities, their unique charm and visibility made them the perfect representatives of working-class resilience during the national event. Gómez and her children continue to embody the spirit of Mexico’s everyday hustlers.

Sheinbaum allowed a moment of lightheartedness by gently attempting to pet Merlín, capturing a playful snapshot with the duck before concluding the press event. Afterward, the President had to shift focus back to move the briefing forward, but the warmth of the interaction lingers, illustrating how far Merlín has come from local bird to Mexican national icon.

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