Pato Merlín, Viral World Cup Duck, Launches Sneaker Line and Video Game

Pato Merlín with his family at the Panam store opening, holding a pair of sneakers

Mexico City — Pato Merlín, the duck who became an internet sensation during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has expanded his brand into fashion and gaming. Mexican shoe company Panam has released a limited-edition sneaker line inspired by the bird, and a mobile video game titled “Pato Merlín Run” is now available.

The sneakers were unveiled Thursday at Panam’s new store in Toreo Parque Central, where Merlín and his family were guests of honor. The collection includes three models: the Gio Dominó, Panam Metrópoli, and Panam 084 Alfa, priced between 549 and 949 pesos (about $30 to $52). Panam also released caps and bags featuring the duck’s image, priced around 119 pesos ($6.50).

In a notable move, the company announced that 10% of all sneaker sales will go to Merlín’s family. The brand produced only 200 pairs, available exclusively at the Toreo location.

The mobile game “Pato Merlín Run,” available on Android and iOS, lets players control the duck as he runs, jumps, and kicks soccer balls. It currently holds a 4.9-star rating on app stores.

Merlín first captured public attention during the World Cup, when a video of him waddling through a stadium went viral. Since then, the duck has become a beloved mascot, with his family signing endorsement deals and meeting with FIFA officials.

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By Laura Castillo

Laura Castillo covers tourism, business, and economic development across Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the wider Riviera Maya for Riviera Maya News & Events. She tracks the region's most important business stories — from hotel investments and airline route expansions to real estate market trends and local economic policy — helping English-speaking readers stay informed about the economic pulse of Mexico's Caribbean coast.Laura has been reporting on Quintana Roo's tourism sector since 2020, closely monitoring developments in Cancun's hotel zone, Tulum's rapidly growing commercial corridor, and the evolving business landscape in Playa del Carmen. Her coverage includes corporate investments, employment trends, infrastructure projects, and the economic impact of events like sargassum seasons and hurricane preparation.Before joining Riviera Maya News & Events, Laura worked in business development and market analysis in the Riviera Maya region, giving her first-hand insight into how tourism, real estate, and local commerce intersect. She is fluent in English and Spanish.For story tips: laura@rivieramayanews.mx