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World Cup star Erling Haaland inspires baby names in Peru

Erling Haaland’s impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is extending well beyond the pitch. As one of the tournament’s biggest stars in North America, the Norwegian striker has captured the imagination of football fans across the continent—including new parents in Peru.

According to official registration data, 468 newborn babies have been named “Haaland,” while another 91 have been given the full name “Erling Haaland,” meaning more than 550 babies now carry the footballer’s name.

The trend underlines Haaland’s growing global appeal during a World Cup that has further elevated his profile across the Americas. His performances in the United States have helped turn him into one of the tournament’s most recognizable faces, with his influence now reaching far beyond stadiums and social media—and even into birth registries.

For Haaland, the World Cup is proving to be more than a football tournament; it is becoming a cultural phenomenon that is inspiring the next generation from the very beginning of life.