Is hosting the World Cup in Norway an economic folly? Debated after team success
Norway's national team has just delivered a strong performance with 3 wins and 2 losses in their last five matches, including a close game against England (1-2). However, the debate about hosting the World Cup in Norway has been reignited, but economic concerns overshadow the dream.
What are the costs?
The USA spent around 50 billion kroner on the World Cup, but Norway would likely need to spend several hundred billion to build stadiums, public transport, and security. Even with Nordic cooperation, the costs would be enormous, and the risk of overspending is high, as seen during the ski World Championships in Trondheim in 2025 and the cycling World Championships in Bergen in 2017.
Why is it controversial?
Venstre leader Guri Melby argues that the World Cup can unite the nation, but critics point out that we struggle to organize smaller events. Even though FIFA has problems, it is not an argument for taking on economic burdens we cannot handle.
What's next?
Norway will face Denmark at home on September 24, 2026. The national team has shown potential, but the debate about the World Cup will likely continue. Is the dream worth the price?
