Norway's Crown Prince Leads Celebrations for National Football Team's Return
A Grand Welcome for Norway's Football Heroes
Over 100,000 enthusiastic fans gathered in the streets to celebrate the return of Norway's national football team after their remarkable journey to the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which concluded with a loss to England. The festivities reached a peak at the Royal Palace, where Crown Prince Haakon led a final "Viking Row," showcasing Norway's newfound passion for football and its future king's involvement.
Earlier, the Crown Prince had participated in the "Viking Row" alongside thousands of supporters following Norway's victory against Brazil. As the excitement surrounding Erling Haaland grew, the heir to the throne found himself sharing the spotlight with the football sensation.
The "Viking Row," inspired by Iceland's famous "Thunder Clap," has emerged as a signature celebration among Norwegian football fans during the World Cup. Videos of Crown Prince Haakon joining the jubilant crowd before and after matches have gone viral across social media platforms.
Understanding Crown Prince Haakon
Who is Crown Prince Haakon?
Norway operates as a constitutional monarchy with a rich history spanning over a millennium, with King Harald V serving as the current head of state. The monarchy traces its roots back to Harald Fairhair, who is believed to have ascended the throne around 885 AD. The present Royal Family belongs to the House of Glücksburg, which has governed Norway since 1905.
The Royal House includes King Harald V, who became king on January 17, 1991, Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, and Princess Ingrid Alexandra. Born on July 20, 1973, Crown Prince Haakon was raised at Skaugum Estate in Asker, Norway, alongside his parents and sister, Märtha Louise, enjoying a childhood similar to that of typical Norwegian children.
Upon the passing of King Olav V on January 17, 1991, he was named Norway’s Crown Prince. Later that year, on his 18th birthday, he participated in his first Council of State on July 20, 1991, alongside his father, King Harald. On that same day, he delivered his inaugural official speech, expressing gratitude after a government dinner held in his honor at Akershus Castle.
His education includes attending Smestad School in Oslo and Kristelig Gymnasium for secondary studies, where he completed his upper secondary examinations in 1992. He holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of California, Berkeley, and a master's degree in development studies from the London School of Economics and Political Science, focusing on international trade and Africa. He has served in the Royal Norwegian Navy and holds ranks in all three branches of the Armed Forces.
Crown Prince Haakon married Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby, a single mother, in 2001, which garnered significant public attention due to her past connections to Norway's nightlife. Their marriage sparked a constitutional debate, with some questioning her suitability for the role of queen. However, Crown Prince Haakon publicly expressed his love for her and his desire to marry. Their wedding was attended by various representatives from European royal families, official Norway, and close friends and family.
Over the years, the couple has become one of Norway's most beloved royal pairs, welcoming two children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus. Mette-Marit's son, Marius Borg Høiby, became Crown Prince Haakon's stepson after their marriage. The Crown Prince has frequently acted as Regent and was appointed a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador in 2003, where he has advocated for the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly focusing on eradicating poverty by 2030.