Haaland’s World Cup Return to Oslo
Erling Haaland, the Norway striker, has returned to Oslo following Norway‘s elimination from the World Cup quarterfinals. The team was defeated by England in a 2-1 match on Saturday. Haaland, known for his goal-scoring ability and engaging personality, arrived back in his home country with some distinctive items from his time in the United States.
Among the possessions Haaland brought back were a new bag and a taxidermied raccoon. He was photographed disembarking the team plane in Oslo carrying bags over his shoulder and the taxidermy raccoon in his left hand.
Unconventional Souvenirs from the United States
While Haaland is recognized for his collection of designer bags, including those from Birkin, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, he chose a Dolce & Gabbana Sicily tote for his return journey from Miami. This particular ecru canvas bag, featuring burgundy alligator accents, was recently showcased at the spring 2027 menswear show in Milan.
However, the most notable item among his belongings was a taxidermied raccoon, which he has referred to as “Whiskey Raccoon.” This raccoon is depicted holding a bottle, and according to one report, it is an empty bottle of Greenall’s wild berry gin. Haaland acquired the raccoon, which was previously listed for sale at $750, during a visit to Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas, Texas.
During his visit to the Dallas store, Haaland also purchased other Western-themed items, including a cowboy hat, boots, and a T-shirt that read, “Y’all Can Kiss My Dallas.” The store owner, Julie Newport, confirmed that Haaland bought these items rather than receiving them as gifts. Wild Bill’s Western Store, which has been in Dallas for nearly 50 years, has seen a surge in interest in the taxidermy raccoons since Haaland’s visit, with the item currently sold out on their website.
Haaland expressed his enjoyment of Dallas, describing it as “amazing” and stating his intention to return. He commented on the positive and friendly nature of the people in the city. Newport noted that the store’s website now features a banner indicating international shipping, a new development since Haaland’s visit. The store has received approximately 2,000 online orders, with about 30 percent of these being international.
Impact of Haaland’s Visit on Wild Bill’s
The visit to Wild Bill’s Western Store was arranged the day before Norway‘s round-of-16 match against Ivory Coast, which Norway won 2-1 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The store was given a short notice, and measures were taken to ensure Haaland’s privacy during his visit, including roping off a section of the store.
Newport recounted that she instructed her manager to “Lock the doors. We’re going to make this special for him,” allowing Haaland and his team to explore the store for about an hour and a half. She described Haaland as very happy and excited during his time there, immersing himself in the Western culture. Haaland also autographed two FIFA balls and Newport‘s hat during his visit.
Haaland had previously shared a video on social media featuring the raccoon alongside stuffed squirrels, and later posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the raccoon “followed him home” from the United States. He also posted on Instagram, asking for name suggestions for his new companion. Newport hopes that the exposure from Haaland’s visit will encourage more people to visit Wild Bill’s Western Store when they come to Dallas.
Haaland’s debut at the World Cup was notable, as he scored seven goals in five matches. His popularity in the U.S. increased during the tournament, leading to a gain of more than 22 million Instagram followers.
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Source: vogue.com
