Norway embraces Viking theme for World Cup return and provokes some debate

The Norwegian national soccer team has embraced a Viking-themed marketing campaign featuring players in traditional attire to celebrate their return to the World Cup after 28 years. While the campaign has generated excitement among fans, it has also sparked debate regarding the historical implications of Viking imagery.
Why it matters
The campaign highlights how national sports teams use cultural identity and branding to build fan engagement during major global tournaments.
First it was their fans performing a synchronized “Viking row” in the stands at matches.
The report balances the excitement of the team's return with the acknowledgment of the controversy surrounding the imagery.
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