Hundreds of newborn babies in Peru have been named after Norwegian football striker Erling Haaland [1], [2].
The trend highlights the global reach of football stardom and the specific influence of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on cultural naming conventions in South America.
According to the national registry of identification and civil status in Peru, parents have chosen either "Haaland" or "Erling Haaland" for their children [1]. Data from the registry indicates that 468 babies were named "Haaland" [1], while 91 were given the full name "Erling Haaland" [1]. However, other reports suggest the total number of babies named Erling Haaland exceeds 550 [4].
This surge in naming follows a strong performance by the Norwegian national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup [6]. Haaland scored seven goals during the tournament [5]. The striker's success on the pitch has translated into a significant cultural impact in Peru, a country that did not qualify for the tournament [3].
Parents said Haaland's football fame and his perceived exploits during the World Cup were the primary inspiration for the names [2], [5]. The phenomenon reflects a pattern where athletes become symbols of aspiration and success, leading parents to associate those names with future achievement for their children.
While the exact number of newborns varies across reporting sources, ranging from 91 to over 550 for the full name, the general consensus remains that hundreds of families have embraced the Norwegian star's identity [1], [4].
“Hundreds of newborn babies in Peru have been named after Erling Haaland”
The naming trend in Peru demonstrates how high-profile sporting events can create immediate, tangible cultural shifts in countries far removed from the athlete's home. By naming children after a foreign star, parents are not just celebrating a sport, but are importing a brand of success and excellence associated with the 2026 World Cup's top performers.
