Norwegian football fans gathered in New York City's Times Square on Sunday, June 22, 2026, to perform the viral ‘Viking Row’ chant [1].
The demonstration marks a significant cultural moment for the national team as they return to the world stage for the first time in 28 years [3]. This resurgence of Norwegian football has drawn international attention to the team's supporters and their coordinated celebrations in the U.S.
The event took place on the eve of Norway's scheduled match against Senegal, which occurred on June 23, 2026 [2]. Fans used the public gathering to rally support and celebrate the team's qualification for the tournament [1].
Norway has seen immediate success in the competition. The team has won its first two opening games, defeating both Iraq and Senegal [4]. In the match against Senegal, Norway secured a 3-2 victory [5].
Following the win over Senegal, the celebration expanded as players joined fans in the ‘Viking Row’ chant [5]. While the initial viral gathering occurred in Times Square, subsequent celebrations were also reported at the stadium in New Jersey [6].
The ‘Viking Row’ is a rhythmic, rowing-motion chant that has become a symbol of Norwegian national pride during the tournament. The display in New York City served as a focal point for the diaspora, and traveling supporters, to visualize their presence in the host country [1].
“Norway qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 28 years”
Norway's unexpected success in the 2026 World Cup, coupled with the viral nature of the 'Viking Row,' suggests a shift in the team's global visibility. By winning their first two matches after nearly three decades of absence from the tournament, the team is transitioning from an underdog story to a legitimate contender, while their supporters are leveraging high-traffic U.S. landmarks to build a lasting brand identity for Norwegian football.
