The bet originated on 3/7, before the World Cup round of 16, when Wayne Rooney, acting as a commentator, declared on BBC television that if Norway defeated Brazil to reach the quarterfinals, he would row down the Mersey River in Liverpool, England.
The Norway national team subsequently defeated Brazil 2-1, thanks to a brace from Haaland. This marks the first time in the team's history they have reached the World Cup quarterfinals, setting the stage for Haaland's reminder.
During the press conference on 9/7, ahead of the quarterfinal match between England and Norway, Haaland reiterated Rooney's promise. "I look forward to seeing Wayne again. What I want to see most right now is him rowing on the Mersey River", the Norway striker said.
Wayne Rooney confirmed he had not forgotten the bet. When asked about the promise by host Kelly Cates, he replied: "I am a man of my word".
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Norway's Erling Haaland leads the team in a Viking rowing celebration after the World Cup round of 16 match between Brazil and Norway in East Rutherford, NJ, on 5/7/2026. *Photo: AP*
The former England captain stated that his colleague Micah Richards had agreed to join him for the rowing. However, as he is currently working in the US, Rooney suggested that the BBC film the event on the Hudson River in New York instead of the Mersey River. Former goalkeeper Joe Hart also volunteered to participate in the rowing trip.
Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, proposed that Rooney could either choose to row as promised or operate the new 26 million GBP Mersey ferry, which is expected to begin operations in the coming months.
Rooney's bet stemmed from the Norway national team's distinctive rowing celebration at the World Cup. After each victory, players and fans lined up to mimic Viking-style rowing motions to the beat of drums.
The quarterfinal match between England and Norway will take place on 11/7 in Miami. The winning team will advance to the semifinals to face Switzerland or Argentina.
Norway fans recreate the rowing celebration in New York. *Video: Instagram/433*
By Nhat Minh (Source: BBC, Mirror)
