Viral Pato Merlín Gets a Commemorative Ticket in the Meksika Ulusal Piyangosu

The Meksika Ulusal Piyangosu (Lotería Nacional) has officially announced the release of a special commemorative ticket featuring the image of the duck named 'Merlín', which became a massive viral phenomenon in the country during the 2026 Dünya Kupası. Prepared for the Özel Çekiliş with number 2891, this souvenir ticket has been distributed to all lottery sales points across the country. At the official opening ceremony led by the general director of the Ulusal Piyango, Olivia Salomón, the Gómez family, who own the famous duck, were hosted at the institution's headquarters. The family, consisting of mother Karla and her children Christian and Carlos, were honored at this special commemorative ceremony thanks to their duck. This move is considered the clearest proof of how an animal that captivated millions on social media transformed into a cultural icon.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ulusal Piyango General Director Olivia Salomón stated that during a time when the whole world is experiencing the excitement of football, Meksika has given a gift to the world. Salomón emphasized that Merlín has gone from being an ordinary duck to becoming a story that has grown with people's love. She also expressed that this duck reminds everyone that Meksikalılar are still a society that can be moved by simple and pure things. The executive specifically highlighted that Merlín conquered people's hearts not just by being an animal, but because behind it is a hardworking and dedicated Meksikalı family. She added that millions of Meksikalılar recognize their own struggles and family bonds in this story.

The design of the commemorative ticket, which features an illustration of Merlín, preserves the duck's iconic look that gained popularity. The duck is seen wearing a green jersey reflecting the famous Meksika national team formation. Additionally, the animal's custom-made miniature sneakers that accompany it are among the details on this special ticket. The design immortalizes the cute and sympathetic stance that turned Merlín into a social media phenomenon. The release of the ticket also allows fans to keep this memory as a souvenir.

Merlín's extraordinary rise to fame occurred during the celebrations when the 2026 FIFA Dünya Kupası was held in North America. The Gómez family, who love football very much, decided to dress their pet duck in a special Meksika jersey to introduce him to the world and include him in the celebrations. The family, who also designed the miniature shoes that perfectly matched the jersey, fully adapted to the Dünya Kupası atmosphere in this way. This cute image attracted great interest from both local and foreign fans, being shared enthusiastically especially on online platforms. Thus, Merlín transcended the sporting event to become an international public figure.

According to information provided by the López-Dóriga Digital news sources where the event was covered, such special draws and souvenir tickets are an important part of Meksika's cultural tradition. This ticket prepared for Merlín is not just a lottery draw, but also a manifesto celebrating the public's shared love and internet culture. The duck's voluntary wandering in the streets and walking with complete calmness among crowds made him one of the most talked-about mascots in the world. The pride the Gómez family feels about this experience stands out as a reflection of the values that the Meksika people connect with. Ultimately, the transfer of Pato Merlín onto the Ulusal Piyango ticket demonstrates how a viral story in the digital age can transform into a permanent historical souvenir.