On Monday, June 22, 2026, Merlín, the beloved duck who captured hearts during the 2026 World Cup celebrations, took a significant step toward protecting his image. After making a memorable appearance at Mexico City’s Palacio Nacional during President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s morning press conference, Merlín’s owner, Karla Ivette Gómez, officially registered the duck’s name and image with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI).

Merlín, easily recognized by his iconic Mexican National Team jersey, became a viral sensation, prompting numerous companies to express interest in using his likeness. However, Karla made it clear that the trademark registration is solely under her name, emphasizing her commitment to safeguarding Merlín as a cherished family member rather than a commercial asset.

“I will be the only one registering with IMPI,” Karla stated on Sunday, June 21, underscoring her intention to prevent unauthorized companies from profiting off Merlín’s image. “No other companies will come to profit from something that is part of my family and purely love,” she added.

While Karla is firm about restricting the use of Merlín’s image, she made an exception for Corporativo Pascual, a Mexican beverage company. “I don’t want to help any company; companies will have to come to me because the image will be registered. But the only company I want to support is Corporativo Pascual, a Mexican company I want to help,” she explained.

Merlín’s plush toys are now available for purchase in Puebla’s Centro Histórico, blending local culture with a fresh, inclusive symbol of national pride. This move not only protects Merlín’s image but also highlights the growing importance of intellectual property rights for creators and families in Mexico.

As Puebla prepares to expand its urban mobility with projects like the upcoming cablebús, initiatives that combine innovation, community identity, and economic opportunity—like Merlín’s trademark—reflect a broader trend toward inclusive development and cultural preservation in Mexican cities.