Man.City Striker Haaland Files Suit Against Airline For Ponytail Ad

Manchester City's prolific striker, Erling Haaland, a prominent figure in Norwegian football, has initiated legal proceedings against Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA. The lawsuit targets the airline for its alleged unauthorized use of the footballer's distinctive ponytail hairstyle in a social media advertisement.

Reports from the Norwegian media outlet VG indicate that the legal action has been jointly filed by Haaland and York Promotions Ltd. against the airline. The dispute stems from a social media post made by Norwegian Air Shuttle, which featured an image of one of its aircraft digitally altered to display Haaland's signature ponytail, complete with shaved sides – a look he has since changed. The accompanying caption read, "We've never looked more Norwegian."

While the controversial post has since been removed from the airline's social media platforms, a court hearing concerning the matter is slated for October 9 in Oslo. Responding to the lawsuit, Norwegian Air press officer Eivind Hammer Myhre expressed bewilderment. "It is true that we have received a lawsuit that we do not understand," Myhre stated. He further explained the airline's perspective, saying, "We, like almost all of Norway, have been involved in cheering on the national team this summer through a few spontaneous posts based on trends in social media."

Haaland, who is a key player for Manchester City, played a crucial role in leading Norway to the World Cup quarterfinals this summer. This marked the national team's first appearance in the tournament since 1998, where they were eventually knocked out by England with a 2-1 defeat.