Wayne Rooney Honors World Cup Bet by Rowing on the Hudson River with Joe Hart and Micah Richards

Wayne Rooney has demonstrated his commitment to his word by fulfilling a promise made during the 2026 World Cup. The former England striker took to the waters of the Hudson River in New York, rowing alongside fellow BBC Sport commentators Joe Hart and Micah Richards. This unusual but memorable event was the result of a bet Rooney made during the tournament.

The bet originated in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup when Rooney pledged that he would row on the Mersey River if Norway managed to defeat Brazil. In a surprising outcome, the Norwegian team secured a 2-1 victory over the Brazilian side, prompting Rooney to confirm live on air that he would honor his commitment. Although the rowing challenge was relocated from the Mersey River in England to the Hudson River in the United States, Rooney and his companions embraced the task with enthusiasm.

This event involved notable former England internationals and current BBC Sport pundits, Joe Hart and Micah Richards, who joined Rooney in swapping their microphones for oars. The trio's rowing on the Hudson River was not only a fulfillment of a bet but also a gesture of respect towards the fans who had passionately supported the tournament. Rooney remarked on the experience, saying, "I loved it. The fans were fantastic. We did it out of respect for them." This highlights the camaraderie and lighthearted spirit that can accompany major football events.

The promise gained widespread attention during the World Cup, particularly after Norwegian fans became famous for their Viking-style rowing celebrations. Even Norway's star striker, Erling Haaland, playfully reminded Rooney of his bet during the competition, saying, "Wayne, I hope you go for a rowing boat ride." This added a layer of friendly rivalry and entertainment to the tournament's narrative.

It is also notable that Norway's impressive run in the tournament ended in the quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by England, Rooney's national team. This context adds a subtle twist to the story, as Rooney's team ultimately progressed further in the competition.

Looking ahead, Rooney and his fellow commentators will continue their coverage of Premier League and international football, bringing insights from their playing careers to their broadcasting roles. Meanwhile, the 2026 World Cup has left behind memorable moments both on and off the pitch, with Rooney's rowing bet standing out as a unique and entertaining story from the tournament.