Wayne Rooney has promised to perform Norway's iconic Viking Row in the River Mersey if the Scandinavian nation beats Brazil and reaches the World Cup quarter-finals, a scenario that could set up a clash with England. The former Manchester United and England striker made the vow during a BBC Sport broadcast, responding to a challenge from presenter Gabby Logan.
Norway's World Cup run and Haaland's heroics
Norway advanced to the Round of 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in Dallas. Erling Haaland scored the winner late on, his 60th international goal, making him the fastest player to reach that milestone. Antonio Nusa had given Norway the lead just before half-time, but Manchester United's Amad equalised with a stunning solo effort. The match seemed destined for extra time until Haaland steered home the decisive goal.
Rooney's bold promise
During the broadcast, Logan joked that Rooney had been practicing the Viking Row ritual, which has become a viral sensation at the World Cup. She said: "They're preparing to do their iconic row. Wayne has been practicing; he hasn't promised to deliver it tonight, but before the end of the tournament. If Norway end up beating Brazil, there is a possibility, if England get through, they'd face England."
Rooney replied: "If Norway get to the quarter-finals, I will go in the River Mersey and I'll row down it." The 40-year-old, who has been a regular pundit for the BBC since leaving his role as Birmingham City manager in 2024, will learn his fate after the match on July 5 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Viking Row phenomenon
The Viking Row, similar to the Icelandic clap at Euro 2016, has taken the World Cup by storm. Fans sit on the floor in a formation resembling a Viking longboat, led by a drummer who beats a traditional Norse horn. The drum starts slowly and quickens with each beat as fans row their arms in unison and chant "row." Norway captain Martin Odegaard has led the ritual post-match, and Ryder Cup star Viktor Hovland performed his own rendition after winning the Traveller's Championship on the PGA Tour last weekend.
Comparison to Lineker's boxers promise
Logan compared Rooney's pledge to Gary Lineker presenting Match of the Day in his boxers after Leicester City's Premier League title win in 2016. She said: "You heard that here first! It's not exactly presenting Match of the Day in your underpants, but I think it's a fairly good thing to commit to. I'm pretty sure we'll hold you to that as well."
Rooney may be hoping Haaland does not lead Norway to an upset against Brazil. Should the 31st-ranked FIFA nation prevail, the former Everton academy graduate will be relieved that his bet falls in summer, avoiding the cold winter temperatures of the Mersey waters.
