Why does Erling Haaland use Braut on his Norway World Cup jersey? History explained (Image via Getty) Erling Haaland is one of the biggest stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, so even small details about him quickly attract attention. One thing many fans have noticed is that the Norwegian striker does not wear the usual “Haaland” lettering on the back of his national team shirt. Instead, his T-shirt says “Brut Haaland”. The change is not related to football, sponsorship or branding. It is a personal decision by the Manchester City striker to recognize an important part of his family. By adding “Braut” to his shirt, Haaland pays tribute to his mother by representing Norway on the world stage.
Why did Erling Braut Haaland add his mother’s surname Gris Marita Braut
The name “Brout” comes from Haaland’s mother, Gri Marita Braut, a former Norwegian heptathlete. His father, Alf-Inge Haaland, is well known to football fans for his work for clubs such as Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Manchester City. Although Erling inherited sporting talent from both sides of the family, he decided to make sure his mother’s name was also visible when he played for Norway. Haaland’s full name is Erling Braut Haaland. Although most football fans know him simply as “Haaland”, “Brut” has always been part of his official name. By using the words “Brut Haaland” on his national team shirt, he publicly acknowledges both sides of his family. Reports surrounding the World Cup described the move as a tribute to his mother and her contribution to his life and career. The gesture also attracted attention because Gris Marita Braut was an accomplished athlete herself. Before Haaland became one of the most fearsome strikers in football, his mother competed in high-level athletics in Norway. The name on the T-shirt recalls that sporting past.
Why does Erling Braut Haaland still only wear “Haaland” for Manchester City?
The situation is different when Haaland plays for Manchester City. At club level, his shirt still only features “Haaland”, the name football fans have associated with him throughout his professional career. This was the case during his time at Manchester City, as well as during his previous spells with Borussia Dortmund and Red Bull Salzburg. However, in Norway he decided to emphasize his full family identity. As a result, fans watching the World Cup see “Brut Haaland” on the back of his national team’s jersey instead of the shorter version used in club football. The decision adds a more personal touch to his performances for Norway and reflects the importance he places on the recognition of both his parents. So, if fans see “Brut Haaland” during the World Cup matches in Norway, this is not a name change at all. Erling Haaland simply decided to honor the memory of his mother, Gris Marita Braut, by representing his country on football’s biggest stage.