Erling Haaland's collection of luxury handbags has drawn sharp criticism from animal rights group PETA, which has accused the Norwegian striker of endorsing cruelty to animals. The Manchester City star, who has scored five goals at the ongoing World Cup, has been showcasing an array of high-end man-bags off the pitch, including several Hermès Birkin bags.
PETA Condemns Use of Exotic Animal Skins
PETA UK senior vice president Mimi Bekhechi said in a statement: "Erling Haaland might be ‘pitch perfect’ but his Hermès Birkin bag collection gets a red card from us and all the animals whose skins were stolen to make them." She added: "A champion should set a compassionate example, not display luggage that is the product of cruelty to animals and violence."
Bekhechi detailed the alleged mistreatment of animals in the production of such bags: "PETA entities have documented workers hacking at crocodiles’ necks and ramming metal rods down their spines, chopping off conscious lizards’ heads, and confining cows to filthy pens before a terrifying trip to the abattoir - all so their skins can be turned into bags and other accessories."
Haaland's Bag Collection Goes Viral
The controversy began after TikToker Jack Savoie highlighted Haaland's collection in a video that went viral. Savoie noted that not all of the 25-year-old's bags were Birkins; some were Haut à Courroies (HAC) models, which are taller and narrower than the Birkin. The video sparked a debate among fans about footballers and handbags.
One fan wrote: "I will never understand why a grown man wants to carry a handbag." Another commented: "So this is how I find out Haaland is a baddie???"
Haaland's On-Field Success Contrasts with Off-Field Controversy
Haaland has been in outstanding form at the World Cup, scoring five goals for Norway. However, his off-field style has now become a talking point. The Hermès Birkin bags in his collection are typically crafted from premium calfskin with goatskin linings, and rare versions can cost up to £75,000.
PETA's criticism focuses on the use of exotic animal skins, including crocodile, lizard, and cowhide. The organization urges Haaland to use his influence to promote compassion rather than cruelty. With many young fans looking up to him, PETA believes he could set a better example.
