Norwegian soccer fans joined an outdoor yoga class in Times Square on June 21, 2024 [1], to perform a viral "Viking row" chant.
The event highlights the intense global atmosphere surrounding the World Cup as supporters bring cultural traditions into unexpected public spaces in the U.S.
Hundreds of fans swarmed the gathering in New York City [3]. The supporters interrupted the yoga session to engage in their choreographed rowing motion and rhythmic chanting, which has become a signature display for the Norway national team. The group used the public square as a staging ground to build momentum for their team's upcoming appearance on the world stage.
This display of support occurred just before Norway's scheduled World Cup match against Senegal on June 22, 2024 [2]. While the fans were focused on the sporting event, the intersection of a peaceful yoga class and a loud soccer celebration created a chaotic scene in the heart of Manhattan.
Reports on the exact timing of the incident varied, with some sources citing the event as occurring on Sunday afternoon and others stating it happened on Sunday night [1]. Despite the discrepancy in time, the impact on the yoga participants, and the surrounding tourists remained the same.
The "Viking row" is a coordinated movement where fans sit or stand and mimic the act of rowing a boat in unison. This specific chant is often used by Norwegian supporters to intimidate opponents and energize their own players during international competitions.
“Norwegian soccer fans joined an outdoor yoga class in Times Square”
The incident reflects the intersection of sports fandom and urban tourism during major international tournaments. By occupying a high-visibility area like Times Square and disrupting a contrasting activity like yoga, the fans utilized a 'flash mob' style of support to garner social media attention and global visibility for the Norwegian team.
