World Cup: Erling Haaland Took Home Taxidermy Raccoon—Because Why Not

Channing Tatum's World Cup Transformation Into Soccer Star Erling Haaland Deserves a Double Take

Erling Haaland won’t tolerate any trash talk about his new furry friend.

The soccer star revealed the unique American souvenir he brought back home with him to Norway after being eliminated from the 2026 World Cup: a taxidermied raccoon.

But the paw-some piece from Texas isn’t just any ole preserved animal—no, the “Whiskey Raccoon” is mounted on a wooden board and positioned to appear as if it is hugging and resting its head on a bottle of whiskey.

As for how much the art piece, purchased from Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas, set the athlete back? It’s currently listed as sold out but priced at $750.

When Haaland returned home to Oslo July 13 following Norway’s 2-1 quarterfinal loss against England in Miami July 11, he carried the Whiskey Raccoon off the plane and had some fun introducing his newest collectible.

Indeed, he shared a picture of the now-viral deplaning moment and captioned the July 13 Instagram post, “It followed me home.”

Plus, the 25-year-old called for his followers to “help me name my new buddy” by creating a poll on his Instagram Stories with the name options Cowboy, Ranger, TEX and R.O.W. (Raccoon on Wheels), possibly a nod to the country’s post-game rowing celebration.

Throughout the 2026 World Cup, during which he scored seven goals, Haaland became a breakout star amongst international fans. Not only did his signature hairstyle—long blonde locks pulled back into a ponytail—spur spectators like Channing Tatum to dress like him during matches, but Haaland also proved he didn’t take himself too seriously on the field by laughing with pal Jude Bellingham of England during the match.

Jan Langhaug / NTB / AFP via Getty Images

And as he reflected on his World Cup experience, Haaland shared his appreciation with his fans.

“It’s been quite a row,” he wrote on Instagram July 12. “Thank you for making it so special.”

For more notable athletes who played in the 2026 World Cup, keep reading…

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