Erling Haaland's Most Unexpected World Cup Souvenir? A Taxidermy Raccoon.
Erling Haaland will not put up with any disparaging remarks on his new animal companion. Following being eliminated from the 2026 World Cup, the soccer player shared the unusual American memento he carried back to Norway: a taxidermied raccoon.
The "Whiskey Raccoon," which is set on a wooden board and positioned to look like it is cuddling and resting its head on a bottle of whiskey, isn't just any old preserved animal, though.
What was the cost of the artwork that the athlete bought from Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas? Although it costs $750, it is now advertised as sold out.
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After Norway's 2-1 quarterfinal defeat to England in Miami on July 11, Haaland brought the Whiskey Raccoon off the plane and enjoyed showcasing his newest collectible when he got back to Oslo on July 13.
In fact, he posted a photo of the now-viral deplaning moment to Instagram on July 13 with the message, "It followed me home."
Additionally, in an apparent reference to the nation's post-game rowing celebration, the 25-year-old asked his followers to "help me name my new buddy" by setting up a poll on his Instagram Stories with the names Cowboy, Ranger, TEX, and R.O.W. (Raccoon on Wheels).
Haaland became a breakout star with international supporters during the 2026 World Cup, scoring seven goals. In addition to inspiring fans like Channing Tatum to dress like him during games with his trademark long blonde hair put back into a ponytail, Haaland also demonstrated that he didn't take himself too seriously on the field by laughing with friend Jude Bellingham of England.
Haaland also expressed his gratitude to his supporters as he thought back on his World Cup experience.
“It’s been quite a row,” on July 12, he posted on Instagram. “Thank you for making it so special.”
