Erling Haaland Encourages Brazilian Fan and Invests in Norway Chess

Erling Haaland sent a personal video message to a young Brazilian fan, Vinny, who had been bullied for his long hair. In the clip Haaland praised the boy’s hairstyle and urged him to stay true to himself, a gesture that resurfaced online after Haaland’s standout performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a separate business move, Haaland announced an angel investment in Norway Chess in March 2026. He co‑founded Chess Mates Capital with Norwegian businessman Morten Borge and secured a 25 percent stake in the tournament organizer, raising about $10 million (≈ NOK 100 million). The funding round attracted other Norwegian athletes and business figures, boosting Norway Chess’s valuation to roughly $25 million.

Both actions highlight Haaland’s expanding influence beyond football, ranging from fan engagement to high‑profile sports‑business investments.