The story behind Norway’s Viking row celebration going viral at the World Cup

Norway’s Viking imitation has caught the imagination at the World Cup (Picture: Getty)

Norway have been one of the standout storylines at the 2026 World Cup – and their Viking row celebration has been a big part of that.

The celebration, which has been performed after each of their wins in North America, has undoubtedly become the viral phenomenon of this summer’s tournament.

Typically initiated by the sounding of a traditional Norse horn, the rhythm of the rowing is determined by a drumbeat, with those involved performing an exaggerated rowing movement as if sitting in a longboat, while simultaneously shouting the Norwegian word for row – ro.

The choreographed routine has been performed far and wide, starting with thousands of Norwegian fans at game...