Merlin, a pet duck and viral sensation known as the unofficial mascot of the World Cup, stole the spotlight during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference on Monday.
Wearing a mini green jersey of Mexico's national soccer team and a FIFA tie, the duck waddled into the room ahead of the president. Merlin took a seat at the podium where ministers and officials are typically seen, facing reporters and letting out a few quacks.
The duck's owner, street vendor Karla Gómez, described the experience as an honor. While the animal became the star of the briefing, families of the disappeared waited outside for a meeting.