Behind Haaland"s commercial appeal reflects a growing global ecosystem built around sports influencers. Chinese brands have also been active participants in this trend. Around the World Cup, advertisements featuring Haaland from Chinese brands including home appliance maker Midea and beverage brand Wang Lao Ji gained widespread attention on social media platforms.

　　In one commercial for a home appliance company, the Norwegian striker carries a washing machine and other appliances during a training session as a coach delivers a straight-faced commentary, creating a striking comedic contrast. In another campaign for a Chinese herbal tea brand, Haaland playfully "breathes fire" before cooling off with the drink, punctuated by his signature "ha ha ha" laugh throughout the advertisement.

　　Wang Lao Ji told the Global Times on Monday that this partnership goes beyond a typical brand endorsement. It reflects a proactive effort by a Chinese consumer brand to engage with global sports culture, align with worldwide health-conscious consumption trends, and establish meaningful dialogue with international young audiences, said the company.

　　"We firmly believe that events like the World Cup, football, and international sports icons are not just sources of traffic or exposure, but vital arenas for global cultural exchanges," said the company.

　　Over the past decade, its overseas market scale has grown 6.5 times, with an average annual compound growth rate exceeding 25 percent. The co-branded marketing of Haaland and the Chinese brand at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has further elevated the brand popularity, continuously fueling momentum in overseas markets, said the company.