Erling Haaland settled a $10,000 Wild Bill's Western Store bill on 28 Jun 2026, after the Norway striker bought a taxidermied raccoon and other Texas memorabilia following the team’s 2‑1 Round‑of‑32 win over Côte d’Ivoire.
What sparked the $10K charge?
During a post‑match visit to Dallas, Haaland and several Norway teammates toured Wild Bill’s, a Texas‑style shop famed for cowboy hats, boots and novelty taxidermy. The striker filmed the trip for his YouTube vlog, then showcased a raccoon clutching a liquor bottle. The store’s owner, Julie Newport, confirmed the purchase cost $750, with two additional taxidermy squirrels at $450 each, plus a shirt reading “Y’all Can Kiss My Dallas.”
How did Haaland handle the tab?
According to TMZ, Haaland personally covered the entire $10,000 invoice, a move that surprised both teammates and staff. The bill arrived hours after Norway’s 2‑1 victory, and Haaland’s decision to pay was framed as a gesture of gratitude toward the host shop, which had welcomed the Norwegian squad for over 90 minutes of shopping.
Why does this matter for Haaland’s brand?
Beyond his seven‑goal haul in five World Cup matches, Haaland’s purchase underscores his growing off‑field profile. Newport noted a surge in international orders after the incident, with 30 % of Wild Bill’s 2,000 online sales now coming from abroad. Haaland’s social‑media post about the raccoon sparked a wave of online interest, turning a quirky souvenir into a marketing catalyst for the store.
What’s next for Norway and Haaland?
Norway’s World Cup journey ended on 4 Jul 2026 with a 2‑1 quarter‑final loss to England, where Haaland was subbed out in extra time. Coach Stale Solbakken said the substitution was inevitable due to fatigue and a “dead leg.” While the tournament is over, Haaland’s Texas adventure adds a memorable footnote to his 2026 season, illustrating how his personality can drive headlines as loudly as his goals.