Oslo is set to host an unusual post-World Cup dispute on 9 October, when Erling Haaland and Norwegian Air Shuttle meet in court over the airline’s use of the Manchester City striker’s image in promotional material.
Haaland has brought legal action against the Norwegian carrier after it used features associated with him to market flights during the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The claim has been filed on behalf of the player and York Promotions.
The case centres on a social-media campaign featuring an aircraft decorated with Haaland’s recognisable long ponytail, alongside a message presenting the design as an especially Norwegian look. The forward cut his hair after the tournament.
Image rights dispute in Oslo
Thomas Hagen, the lawyer representing Haaland and York Promotions, said the action concerns the unauthorised commercial use of the player’s distinctive identity in advertising airline tickets during the World Cup.
Norwegian confirmed on Thursday that it had received the lawsuit and has removed the image from its social-media channels.
The airline described the legal move as difficult to understand. It said the posts had been a small, trend-led attempt to show support for Norway’s national team, rather than a wider commercial campaign built around the player.
Norwegian added that it hoped constructive talks could still allow it to celebrate the Nordic country’s sporting figures in future.
Preliminary hearing scheduled
An Oslo district court will hold a preliminary hearing between the parties on 9 October. That session will take place before any decision on whether the dispute proceeds to a full trial.
