Haaland celebrates 26th birthday in St Tropez with Mahrez on French Riviera

Erling Haaland has marked his 26th birthday with a lavish summer celebration in the upmarket French resort of Saint-Tropez, joined by former Manchester City team-mate Riyad Mahrez.

The Norway and Manchester City striker chose the exclusive Riviera hotspot for a beachside party attended by friends, sharing images of the occasion across his social media accounts.

French broadcaster RMC reported on the event, commenting: “احتفل هالاند بعيد ميلاده في سان تروبيه، برفقة محرز بشكل خاص” – “Haaland celebrated his birthday in Saint-Tropez, accompanied by Mahrez in particular.”

The gathering underlines the close bond between the pair, who spent a season together at City before their careers took different paths last year.

Star duo reunite on the Riviera

Photos and video clips posted by Haaland showed the Manchester City forward relaxing in bright summer conditions, with Mahrez among the high-profile guests.

The celebrations took place on the shoreline of the French Riviera, an area long favoured by elite footballers as a summer escape. Many players traditionally spend part of their off-season there before returning to pre-season preparations with their clubs.

Haaland, who has been a central figure in City’s recent domestic and European success, appeared at ease as he marked the milestone birthday away from the pitch.

Mahrez’s presence at the event drew particular attention in France and across the football world, given their history together in Manchester.

Former City team-mates

Haaland and Mahrez shared a dressing room at Manchester City during the 2022-2023 campaign, a season in which the club completed a historic Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.

While Haaland remained at the Etihad Stadium to spearhead Pep Guardiola’s attack, Mahrez departed in the summer of 2023 for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

The Algerian winger has since left the Jeddah club this summer and has yet to confirm his next destination, prompting speculation over his future. His appearance alongside Haaland in Saint-Tropez is likely to fuel further interest in where he will play next season, although there is no indication the celebration was related to transfer talks.

Riviera remains football’s summer playground

The choice of Saint-Tropez highlights the French Riviera’s enduring appeal for football’s elite. The region’s private beaches, luxury yachts and exclusive venues make it a recurring backdrop for players’ off-season breaks.

Haaland’s birthday trip follows a familiar pattern, with many stars opting for brief holidays before the demands of pre-season training and a new campaign.

With the new European season approaching, the images of Haaland and Mahrez together in Saint-Tropez offer a rare glimpse of two high-profile forwards away from competitive action – celebrating friendship and success on one of Europe’s most glamorous coastlines.