The Viking Row, a human statue and a Tartan takeover: World Cup trends capture U.S. hearts

World CupThe Viking Row, a human statue and a Tartan takeover: World Cup trends capture U.S. heartsFrom national instruments to nods to history, fans from around the world have been making their presence felt in the U.S. cities hosting the tournament.Listen to this article with a free profile00:0000:00Add NBC News to GoogleNorway fans invade the U.S. with viral ‘Viking row’01:37Get more newsLiveonShareAdd NBC News to GoogleJune 27, 2026, 7:02 AM EDTBy Elmira AliievaFans from around the world have traveled thousands of miles to the World Cup, bringing with them displays of national identity that have delivered some of the tournament’s most iconic moments. Limited time: Save 25% on NBC News subscriptionGet exclusive reporting, live Q&As and ad-free reading.After Norway beat Senegal 3-2 in New Jersey on Monday, it was the scenes in the stands that stole the spotlight. Instead of breaking into frenzied celebrations, thousands of Norwegian fans sat down and began rowing in their seats. Soon, the players on the field joined in, sitting down and rowing as captain Martin Ødegaard banged a large drum.The simple routine requires people to sit shoulder-to-shoulder, mimic rowing a giant Viking vessel, while chanting “ro” — the Norwegian word for “row.” It has become a signature show of support for the team, with Norwegian fans recreating it across New York and New Jersey, from subway trains to escalators.When fans took over Times Square on Monday for a group row, Ashley Locke, 34, from Nashville, Tennessee, was among them.Fans of the Norwegian World Cup team perform the "Viking Row" in New York City on June 19.Lokman Vural Elibol / Anadolu via Getty Images“There’s nothing that feels similar to when everyone in one place has the same energy,” she told NBC News in a text message Wednesday, adding: “It was very cool and special, it’s something that doesn’t happen outside of the World Cup.”The viral trend first emerged during a 0-0 friendly draw with Switzerland in Ma...