Viking Announces Five-Year Sponsorship Plan with Norwegian Football Federation
Cruise line Viking has embarked on an exciting partnership with the Norwegian Football Federation (NFF), securing a five-year contract to become the main sponsor for the National Team Academy and Norway’s under-level national teams. This initiative is set to bolster the future of football in Norway through a program known as Future Vikings.
The Future Vikings Initiative
According to Karl-Petter Loken, General Secretary of the NFF, the Future Vikings program aims to cultivate the next generation of Norwegian football talent. “This program will help us build the next generation of Norwegian stars,” Loken stated.
Identifying Talent at a Young Age
The National Team Academy plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing promising 12- to 16-year-olds who exhibit the potential to become top soccer players at both national and international levels. Since its inception in 2015, the academy has produced remarkable talents, including renowned players like Ada Hegerberg, Caroline Graham Hansen, Martin Ødegaard, Erling Braut Haaland, and Antonio Nusa. After their time at the academy, these athletes move on to compete at the U-level national teams.
A Vision for the Future
Viking’s commitment to Norwegian football is underscored by the enthusiasm of its Chairman and CEO, Torstein Hagen. “We believe Norwegian football is entering a new golden age, and we are pleased to be part of the journey,” Hagen remarked, reflecting on his own youth experiences in the sport.
This partnership is expected to create a lasting impact on the landscape of football in Norway, fostering young talent while aligning with Viking’s vision of community engagement and support for local sports.
As the Future Vikings program unfolds, all eyes will be on Norway, where the next chapter in football history is poised to begin.
