Rooney, Hart and Richards row down Hudson River after World Cup pledge

Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart and Micah Richards have fulfilled a World Cup pledge by rowing down the Hudson River in New York. The challenge originated during the World Cup round of 16, when former England striker Rooney, working as a BBC Sport pundit, promised to row down the River Mersey if Norway defeated Brazil. Norway delivered a 2-1 upset against the five-time champions, prompting Rooney to confirm live on air that he would take on the challenge in the United States.

Pundits trade microphones for oars

Rooney, alongside fellow BBC pundits Joe Hart and Micah Richards, swapped their microphones for oars and took to the Hudson River. The trio rowed in New York, with Rooney expressing his enjoyment of the experience. "I loved it," Rooney said. "The fans were brilliant. So we've done it out of respect for the fans."

The Viking row, a celebration that became a sensation at the World Cup, was performed by Norway fans and even caught the attention of Norway striker Erling Haaland. Haaland had publicly called on Rooney to follow through on his promise, saying, "Wayne, I expect you to go out on a rowing trip." Norway were later eliminated by England in the quarter-finals.

Upcoming World Cup coverage

Rooney, Hart and Richards will return to dry land alongside Gabby Logan for Sunday's World Cup final, which kicks off at 20:00 BST and will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. England face France in the third-place match on Saturday at 22:00, also live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled for 19 July at 20:00 BST, with coverage available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, including UHD, as well as BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. Fans can follow TV and radio coverage, live text updates, in-play video clips, post-match highlights, and analysis on the BBC Sport website and app.