Merlin the duck’s attempt to watch his beloved Mexico live has encountered a roadblock due to his exclusion from El Tri’s match against Czechia on Wednesday. After becoming a symbol of El Tri’s domestic World Cup campaign, Merlin has become as a folk hero in Mexico. Merlin’s supporters have started a campaign to bring his human family to the game on Wednesday. However, FIFA rules prevented him from continuing. One of the biggest television networks in Latin America, Televisa, gave Merlin permission to record a segment on the Estadio Azteca grounds.
FIFA Law Prevents Merlin From Watching Mexico Live
As eager people flocked to see the sixth-most famous duck in the world, Merlin, owner Carla Gomez, and her son Cristian traveled in comfort inside a transport box under stringent security measures. However, because of FIFA laws that forbid animals from accessing grounds to protect their welfare, he was not permitted to watch the actual play.
Merlin was allowed to enter the stadium’s perimeter but not the stadium itself, according to a FIFA representative, who did not comment further.
“These last few days have been crazy, we’ll never stop being grateful for what we’ve experienced. Everyone is truly amazed by Merlín,” Carla Gómez told the Associated Press.
Merlin Becomes Social Media Sensation
During this World Cup, Merlin has become a global sensation across the social media. The two-year-old has been a common sight in the capital, happily accompanying his family as they serve refreshments throughout the city while sporting a green Mexico shirt. He has conducted interviews, gone to TV studios, interacted with supporters, and even had a meeting with Claudia Sheinbaum, the president of Mexico.
Carla Gomez is certain that Merlin will bring luck to Mexico even though he will not be watching from the stands.
“Merlin is a lucky charm, and I know that, with him, the Mexican national team will win again today,” she said.
