Norwegian Fans Bring Viking Energy to Boston’s World Cup Celebrations

Norwegian fans are embracing their Viking roots as they gather in Boston, celebrating their nation’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years. They have captivated locals with synchronized “Viking rows.”

A video at Boston’s South Station captured numerous Norway fans, some adorned with Viking helmets and Norwegian flags, performing rowing motions in unison. The crowd chanted “Hoo! Hoo!” as they ascended an escalator, reminiscent of a Viking longship crew.

Jeremy Siegel, a journalist with WGBH in Boston, shared the footage, noting that the display was unlike anything he had witnessed before. “Adding this to the list of things I’ve never seen before and probably never will again,” he commented.

Norwegian soccer fans infused Boston with Viking-themed enthusiasm as their country marked its first World Cup participation in nearly three decades.

The spontaneous event quickly won admiration online. One person remarked, “My usual train ride suddenly feels incredibly boring compared to this.” Another added, “I’ve seen fans chant, dance, and lose their minds in stadiums, but rowing a Viking ship up an escalator wasn’t on my 2026 bingo card.”

Despite the excitement, some viewers expressed concerns about the performance’s safety, particularly regarding how the fans managed their capes and flags while on the escalator. “Who else was waiting for that flag to snag in that escalator?” a viewer questioned.

Boston has witnessed an influx of international visitors, with World Cup fans bringing their traditions to the area. The city also welcomed Scottish tourists who celebrated after Scotland’s 1-0 victory over Haiti. On Sunday, Scottish fans charmed locals with a lively march to Fenway Park, where they attended Scottish Heritage Night.