Viking Becomes Main Sponsor of Norway’s Youth Football Programs

Viking and the Norwegian Football Federation have entered into a new partnership aimed at elevating young football talent in Norway. Under the agreement, Viking will serve as the primary sponsor of the National Team Academy (Landslagsskolen) and the country’s youth national teams.

The partnership supports Viking’s “Future Vikings” initiative and is designed to foster the development of Norway’s most promising young players over at least the next five years. The long term goal is to help cultivate the next generation of standout Norwegian footballers.

Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said the timing of the collaboration is ideal.

“We believe Norwegian football is entering a new golden age, and we’re proud to be part of that journey,” Hagen said. “The National Team Academy gives motivated young players a chance to grow and improve, and it’s exciting to support the stars of tomorrow.”

Hagen, who grew up in Nittedal and played football in his youth, noted that Viking’s values align closely with those of the sport.

“At Viking, we believe that with hard work, nothing is impossible. That mindset fits perfectly with football and with young people who dream big and work hard to reach the top.”

The National Team Academy focuses on identifying and nurturing Norway’s most gifted players between the ages of 12 and 16. Since its launch in 2015, it has supported the early development of several top Norwegian footballers, including Ada Hegerberg, Caroline Graham Hansen, Martin Ødegaard, Erling Braut Haaland and Antonio Nusa.

Players then advance to the U level national teams, which cover age groups from 14 (girls) and 15 (boys) through under-23. These teams have seen strong results internationally, frequently qualifying for major tournaments.

Karl Petter Løken, General Secretary of the Norwegian Football Federation, welcomed Viking’s support and described the partnership as an important boost for talent development.

“Our talent development model is unique in Europe and creates a strong link between grassroots football and the top level,” Løken said. “With the ‘Future Vikings’ program, we are building the foundation for Norway’s next generation of stars. Having Viking as our main sponsor gives the program stability and strong support for years to come.”

Together, Viking and the Norwegian Football Federation aim to strengthen the pathway from youth training to international success, beginning with the country’s youngest players and extending all the way to the senior stage.