“Stupid thought”. Norwegian fan sparks controversy by leaving Vikings

A Norway fan became the talk of the town at the 2026 World Cup when he refused to take part in the Viking heritage-inspired rowing celebrations that have become common among Norway supporters, voicing his objection to the “stupid idea”.

During Norway’s 3-2 win over Senegal, TV cameras captured fan Emile Anirsch Labin sitting in his seat without any interaction, while the fans around him performed a collective paddle motion to celebrate the team’s achievement that ensured they progressed to the round of 32.

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A commentator for the Norwegian NRK TV channel said that when the camera approached Lapin, “There is someone who does not want to participate in the meeting,” the agency reports. Reuters.

In turn, Lapin told the newspaper Verdence Gang. “I think rowing was a stupid idea in the first place. I was never happy with that… I sit visibly still when people start paddling.”

However, Lappin said he found the rowing motion reminded him too much of Iceland’s fans and the “thunder noise” they had made in previous tournaments, and that the rowing motion itself was historically incorrect, as Viking longships were often powered by sails.

He added: “I have to defend my opinion, and there will be no swearing in the future either, it will be quickly picked up on TV if you suddenly start swearing now… You have started another one, I think it should be seen to the end.”