The duck known as “Pato Merlín,” which gained viral fame during the 2026 World Cup, has officially been signed by the Atlante Football Club. Atlante, nicknamed the “Potros de Hierro” (Iron Colts), is returning to the Primera División, Mexico’s top-tier football league. Details surrounding the duck’s role with the team were revealed during a presentation event. The signing is largely a promotional move capitalizing on the duck’s widespread popularity during the World Cup. The club hopes Merlín’s presence will boost fan engagement and visibility as they rejoin the Primera División. No further details regarding the terms of the “signing” or the duck’s specific duties have been released. This unusual partnership highlights the increasing use of viral marketing in professional sports.