World Cup excitement in Mexico City has spread to pets decked out in national team jerseys, from dogs and hamsters to horses and the viral duck mascot Merlin [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Vendors in local markets sell knock-off jerseys for pets under brands like “Adidog” for about $5, while official Adidas jerseys for humans cost $100 for replicas and $150 for authentic versions [1, 2, 3, 4]. The high jersey prices contrast with the daily minimum wage in Mexico, about 315 pesos ($18-$23), making a replica jersey nearly a week’s wages [1, 2, 3, 4].
Adidas has confirmed that the Mexico jersey is its best-selling globally and has launched a limited pet collection mainly for cats and dogs [1, 2, 3, 4]. The company works closely with authorities to combat counterfeit jersey sales and protect intellectual property rights in Mexico [1, 2, 3, 4]. Street vendor Efrain Miranda said he sold up to 30 pet jerseys daily but has now run out of stock amid huge demand and is unsure when new supply will arrive [1, 2, 3, 5].
Among the pet fans, Merlin the duck has gained wide attention. He rose to fame on June 11 after Mexico’s 2-0 World Cup opening win over South Africa [6]. Merlin often wears a mini Mexico jersey and protective shoes while enjoying a varied diet including occasional pork tacos [6]. On June 22, Merlin met Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum at a press conference and was praised as a symbol of Mexican families and the World Cup [6]. The president said, "Today we brought the family that has Merlin the duck as their pet, because he has been a symbol of the World Cup, a symbol of what Mexican families stand for, of who we are as Mexican families, and that is above all else; it is what the world is seeing from Mexico today." [6]
Merlin’s owner, Karla Gomez, said, "We feel very honored to be here with the president, it is an honour for us to stand before you and for the whole world to see the beautiful side of Mexico." She plans to register Merlin as a trademark to benefit her family [6].
Diana Montes, a market vendor, described the popular trend: "The most popular trend right now is the entire family dressed in the same outfit," including matching apparel for pets [1]. Shopper Aida Cruz said of her pet, "She’s part of the family." [1]
Reports on June 23 highlighted the growing market for pet jerseys and custom family matching orders in Mexico City [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The jersey craze continues as demand remains high, with vendors awaiting new stock shipments.
