Wayne Rooney rows Hudson River after Norway's quarterfinals

Former England captain and current television pundit Wayne Rooney fulfilled a public pledge on Friday, July 17, by rowing down New York's Hudson River after Norway's unexpected run to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Rooney was joined by fellow pundits and former England teammates Micah Richards and Joe Hart for the lighthearted forfeit.

The event stemmed from a prediction Rooney made before Norway's round of 16 match against Brazil. Confident the Scandinavian side would not advance, Rooney declared that if Norway reached the quarterfinals, he would row down the River Mersey in Liverpool. Norway, led by a late brace from star striker Erling Haaland, defeated the five-time champions Brazil 2-1, securing their first-ever World Cup quarterfinal appearance.

Following the victory, Haaland publicly reminded Rooney of his promise, stating he expected to see "Wayney boy" go out on a rowing trip. Rooney, who was in New York for punditry duties during the tournament's latter stages, acknowledged his commitment but suggested the location might change. On Friday, with Richards providing rhythmic drumming in homage to the Norwegian fans' celebration, the trio took to a rowboat...