Wayne Rooney has fulfilled his World Cup promise to Erling Haaland by rowing down the Hudson River in New York, after Norway reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 tournament. The former Manchester United and England striker had bet that Norway would not beat Brazil in the round of 16, but Haaland's double secured a 2-1 victory, prompting Rooney to take to the water.
Rooney's Promise and Haaland's Challenge
Rooney originally vowed on air: "If Norway get to the quarter-finals, I'll go in the River Mersey and row down it." After Norway's historic win, Haaland publicly reminded Rooney of his pledge, saying: "I'm looking forward to seeing Wayne, Wayney boy. I'm looking forward to seeing Wayne Rooney rowing down in Liverpool. That's all I want to see now. Wayne Rooney, I expect you to go out on a rowing trip."
Rowing Down the Hudson
Rooney, joined by fellow pundits Micah Richards and Joe Hart, climbed into a rowing boat on the Hudson River. "Erling, as promised, here we are doing our row down the Hudson River," Rooney told the BBC as they prepared. During the row, Rooney joked: "I think I've pulled my thigh!" Hart quipped: "We should race the Norwegian team." Rooney later said: "I loved it. The fans were brilliant. So we've done it out of respect for the fans."
Norway's World Cup Journey
Norway's supporters had become famous for their 'Viking row' celebration during the tournament, which inspired Rooney's original bet. England eventually defeated Norway in extra time, with Jude Bellingham scoring the decisive goal in a 1-1 draw. Thomas Tuchel's side then lost to Argentina in the semi-finals and will play France for third place on July 18. The final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled for July 19.
Rooney also responded to Haaland's challenge by referencing a video of the striker dancing in Marbella, saying: "I hope you enjoyed it. I have seen a video of you dancing in Marbella... Enjoy it."
