Norway's Viking photo stirs debate as World Cup return looms

Back on the world stage

Norway are going to a World Cup for the first time since 1998, and they've marked the occasion with a Viking-themed team photo featuring Erling Haaland and the squad. The image is pure theatre, fitting for a return 28 years in the making. (1)

The photo that could be worth millions

The iconic shot, taken by world-renowned art photographer David Yarrow, is being sold commercially and could generate up to 39 million Norwegian kroner. Yarrow holds the commercial rights, while the NFF keeps editorial usage rights. A portion of any net profit will go to the Childhood Cancer Association, a long-time partner of the men's national team, according to commercial director Runar Pahr Andresen. (2)

Not everyone is cheering

The Viking theme has drawn sharp criticism online, with some branding the imagery chauvinist and likening it to neo-Nazi aesthetics. What the NFF intended as a celebration of heritage has landed differently with parts of the audience. (3)

Solbakken's bigger worry

Ståle Solbakken has real problems to solve before the tournament kicks off. The 1–1 draw with Morocco in New Jersey showed the best and worst of this Norway side: an electric opening 20 minutes undone by fading intensity and defensive gaps. Martin Ødegaard salvaged the result after Brahim Díaz put Morocco ahead. With Scotland's late friendly cancellation adding disruption, Solbakken called it unprofessional, but his focus now must be fixing a side that still leans too heavily on Ødegaard and can't sustain a press for 90 minutes.