Sport: Soccer Country: Mexico Category: Match Previews

Merlín the duck barred from attending Mexico vs. Czechia match

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 1:08 AM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Merlín the duck barred from attending Mexico vs. Czechia match

Summary

Merlín, a two-year-old duck and symbol of Mexico's World Cup campaign, cannot attend El Tri's match against Czechia on June 25. His supporters had hoped to bring him to the game, but FIFA regulations have prevented his entry. The duck's popularity surged during the tournament, making him a folk hero in Mexico. Fans are disappointed but have rallied around Merlín, who will watch the match from a distance.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•Merlín is recognized as a folk hero in Mexico.
•Campaign launched to bring Merlín to the match was unsuccessful.
•FIFA regulations barred his attendance at the game on June 25.
•Mexico faces Czechia in a World Cup match.

Latest Updates

1:08 AMThe Guardian Sport — Duck off: World Cup hero Merlín barred from Mexico game due to Fifa’s animal ban

What they're saying

"
World’s sixth-most famous duck falls short of dream Two-year-old must watch Czechia game from distance Merlín the duck’s bid to see his beloved Mexico live has hit a snag after he was barred from El Tri’s match with Czechia on Wednesday. Merlín has become a folk hero in Mexico after becoming a symbol of El Tri’s World Cup campaign on home soil. His fans had launched a campaign for Merlín to attend Wednesday’s match alongside his human family. But his journey was cut short by Fifa regulations. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Guardian sport and agencies

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