- Future Vikings Program: A five-year sponsorship agreement that provides essential funding and resources for Norway’s youth national teams and the National Team Academy.
- Talent Development Success: The academy focus is on identifying and stimulating elite skills in players aged 12 to 16, a system that has produced several global football icons.
- Corporate Cultural Integration: This partnership complements Viking’s existing support for Norwegian institutions like the Munch Museum and its year-round maritime operations in local ports.
- Alignment of Values: Both organizations emphasize that success is achieved through dedication and a belief that ambitious goals are attainable through hard work.
Viking and the Norwegian Football Federation have established an inspiring long-term partnership aimed at nurturing the next generation of athletic talent. Through the newly formed “Future Vikings” program, the cruise line will serve as the primary sponsor for the National Team Academy and Norway’s youth-level national teams for at least the next five years. This collaboration provides a stable and supportive framework for developing promising players between the ages of 12 and 16, helping them transition into international stars.
The National Team Academy has a proven track record of success, having previously developed world-renowned players such as Erling Braut Haaland and Martin Ødegård. By supporting this unique European model, Viking is helping to bridge the gap between grassroots participation and professional achievement. Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen expressed his pride in contributing to this new golden age of Norwegian football, noting that the values of hard work and ambition are shared by both his company and the young athletes aiming for the top of their sport.
This sponsorship further solidifies Viking’s deep cultural and economic ties to Norway. Beyond the football pitch, the company maintains a significant presence in the region through its Norwegian-flagged ships that frequent a dozen local ports throughout the year. Additionally, Viking continues to support Norway’s heritage through partnerships with the Munch Museum and the National Museum of Norway. This holistic approach to community involvement demonstrates a commitment to both the historical traditions and the future potential of the country. As a global leader in experiential travel, Viking continues to receive top honors from major publications, and this new initiative reflects its dedication to excellence and cultural enrichment.
