Wayne Rooney has fulfilled his promise to Erling Haaland after Norway's historic run to the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, rowing along the Hudson River in New York. The former England and Manchester United legend had wagered that Norway would not defeat Brazil in the last 16.
Rooney's Wager and Norway's Victory
Rooney had previously stated: "If Norway get to the quarter-finals, I'll go in the River Mersey and row down it." Haaland's nation did exactly that, with a brace from the Manchester City superstar sending Norway through, beating Brazil 2-1 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
The 25-year-old Haaland was quick to hold Rooney to his word, saying: "I'm looking forward to seeing Wayne, Wayne-y 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 on the Hudson River
Rooney, accompanied by fellow pundits Micah Richards and Joe Hart, took hold of a pair of oars and clambered 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 the vessel was readied.
Rooney quipped as the three men rowed: "I think I've pulled my thigh!" before Hart chimed in: "We should race the Norwegian team." Rooney added: "I loved it. The fans were brilliant. So we've done it out of respect for the fans. I hope you enjoyed it [Haaland]. I have seen a video of you dancing in Marbella... Enjoy it."
Norway's Viking Row Celebration
Norway's fans produced some of the tournament's most memorable moments at the 2026 competition with their 'Viking row' celebration, prompting the former Manchester United and England striker to pledge he would take to Liverpool's River Mersey should they eliminate Brazil in the last 16.
England's Path and Remaining Matches
England ultimately edged past Norway in extra-time following a 1-1 stalemate in normal time, with Jude Bellingham netting the crucial goal. Thomas Tuchel's side were then unable to get the better of Argentina in the semi-finals and will now battle it out for third place. The bronze-medal match against France is scheduled for Saturday, 18 July at 10pm, while Sunday's final between Spain and Argentina is set to get under way at 8pm.
