Haaland Honors His Mother by Changing His Name for 2026 World Cup

Norwegian star Erling Haaland continues to capture attention ahead of the 2026 World Cup, not only for his impressive performances but also for a heartfelt gesture honoring his mother.

Recent reports reveal that the Manchester City striker has taken to wearing the Norwegian national team jersey emblazoned with the name “Braut Haaland” instead of just “Haaland.” This change symbolizes his appreciation for his mother, showcasing a personal touch as he prepares for the tournament.

Haaland is expected to maintain this tribute during the World Cup, as Norway gears up to kick off their campaign against Iraq at midnight on June 16-17 in Boston, USA.

The new name on his jersey reflects Haaland’s desire to highlight a part of his family identity, especially as the football world often associates him with his father alone, despite having a dual athletic heritage.

His mother, Gry Marita Braut, was a prominent athlete in track and field and competed professionally in heptathlon events. Meanwhile, his father, Alf-Inge Håland, is a former Premier League player who played for Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, and Manchester City—the club where Erling was born in 2000.

While the name “Haaland” is well-known in football circles, the player’s decision to feature his mother’s name on the national team jersey reflects a personal and human dimension that transcends competitive sports. The official name used at Manchester City will remain unchanged.