Peruvian newborns flood civil registry with Erling Haaland name after World Cup

Peru’s civil‑registration office (RENIEC) reported a sharp rise in babies named after Norwegian striker Erling Haaland following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Official figures show 468 children registered with the surname Haaland and 91 given the full name Erling Haaland, bringing the total to roughly 560‑593 newborns bearing the name. The surge began with the tournament’s group stage and accelerated after Norway reached the quarter‑finals, where Haaland scored seven goals, including a decisive strike against Brazil.

The phenomenon is part of a broader trend in Peru of naming children after famous footballers. RENIEC data also list 3,402 individuals named Messi, 33,809 named Neymar, 1,185 named Cristiano Ronaldo and 1,241 named Lamine Yamal. Parents say the World Cup’s high‑profile performances turn players into cultural icons that influence personal naming choices.

Officials, such as RENIEC spokesperson Iván Torres, note the pattern reflects the lasting impact of major sporting events on everyday life in Peru.