Norwegian fan protests Viking Row chant at World Cup

A Norwegian football fan has become an unlikely viral sensation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by steadfastly refusing to join his country's popular "Viking Row" celebration, citing historical inaccuracies and a lack of originality. Emil Lappen, who was spotted sitting motionless among thousands of rowing supporters after Norway's 3-2 victory over Senegal, explained his stance in an interview, stating he finds the choreographed chant "stupid and annoying."

The celebration, which has become a hallmark of Norway's historic run to its first-ever men's World Cup quarterfinal, involves fans and players performing an exaggerated rowing motion in unison while shouting. It is typically initiated by the blowing of a Norse horn. While it has been embraced by the national team, including star striker Erling Haaland, and has spread to viewing parties worldwide, Lappen remains a notable dissenter.

His primary objection is historical. He contends the Vikings sailed, not rowed, across the Atlantic Ocean. Lappen pointed to an associated song's lyrics about rowing across the Atlantic as a particular source of annoyance, clarifying that while Vikings used oars on rivers, sails were essential for...