Erling Haaland brought Norway’s iconic Viking Row to Gianluigi Donnarumma’s wedding. A viral video shows how Haaland led the guests in the viral celebration that became the defining symbol of his country’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
File photo of Erling Haaland leading the viking chant. (Reuters Photo)
New Delhi, UPDATED: Jul 26, 2026 08:56 IST
Erling Haaland swapped his goalscoring boots for a bongo drum as he took over the dance floor at Gianluigi Donnarumma’s wedding in Italy, leading guests in a rousing rendition of Norway’s viral “Viking Row.”
The Italian goalkeeper tied the knot with his partner Alessia Elefante in a lavish ceremony in Fasano, attended by a star-studded guest list that included Pep Guardiola, Paolo Maldini, Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Barella.
But it was Haaland who stole the show during the evening reception.
Climbing onto the stage, the 26-year-old Norwegian striker grabbed a drum and set a steady rhythm, prompting formally dressed guests, suits, tuxedos and all, to sit down on the floor and lean back and forth in unison to mimic rowing oars.
It was a familiar sight by now.
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Viking Row had gone from a Norwegian celebration to a global phenomenon, becoming almost inseparable from the country’s remarkable campaign in the United States.
VIKING ROW TAKES OVER THE WORLD
The celebration first became a defining feature of Norway’s World Cup journey during the group stage.
Every time Norway took to the pitch, the Viking Row seemed to follow. Norwegian supporters filled stadiums with rhythmic movement, while the players repeatedly joined in on the pitch after their victories.
Thousands of fans had already taken over Times Square in New York before one of Norway’s matches, performing the synchronised rowing motion to the beat of the drum. Soon, it was no longer confined to Norwegian suppo
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