Atlante FC sparked a lively conversation on social media this Wednesday, June 24, 2026, by sharing a video featuring the viral internet character “Pato Merlín” wearing the club’s iconic blue and red jersey.

The post, published on Atlante’s official channels, came with a bold message that quickly caught the attention of fans and digital audiences alike:

“Superamos a la IA 🤖 Si el Pato Merlín representa a México, el Pato Merlín es del Equipo del Pueblo 🔵🔴
¡Bienvenido al Atlante FC! 🦆
#LesGusteONoLesGuste”

This move is part of Atlante’s recent strategy to strengthen its identity as “El Equipo del Pueblo” (The Team of the People) by embracing humor, memes, and digital culture to engage younger audiences on platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram.

In the video, “Pato Merlín” sports the Atlante jersey, sparking a wave of reactions. Many fans praised the club’s creativity, while others saw it as a sign of Mexican football’s growing trend to incorporate viral internet phenomena into their communication strategies.

Atlante’s approach reflects a broader shift in sports marketing where clubs compete for attention beyond the pitch, using pop culture and humor to build stronger connections with diverse and digitally savvy communities. This kind of engagement not only revitalizes the club’s image but also aligns with inclusive and innovative ways to reach Millennials and migrant audiences who value authenticity and cultural relevance.