Norway revealed its final 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup on May 21, with captain Martin Odegaard and star striker Erling Haaland leading the roster [1, 2]. The squad announcement was finalized following a pre-recorded video sign-off from King Harald, marking an unusual royal endorsement of the team [1, 2]. Defender Sondre Langas joked about the process, saying, "I didn't trust it until the video was finished. I didn't trust the King for a second." [1]
The goalkeeper lineup features veteran Orjan Haskjold Nyland and Egil Selvik, alongside 23-year-old newcomer Sander Tangvik of Hamburger SV. Tangvik was the only uncapped player selected after a complicated selection process that involved injuries and FIFA nationality considerations [1, 2].
The midfield and attack include notable names such as Jens Petter Hauge and Thelo Aasgaard, although some players like Aron Donnum and Felix Horn Myhre were left out of the final roster [1, 2]. Defensively, the team combines experience and fresh talent with Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjorn Heggem, Leo Skiri Ostigard, and the additions of Sondre Langas and Henrik Falchener [1, 2].
Norway is positioned in Group I alongside France, Senegal, and Iraq for the World Cup, setting a challenging stage for its campaign [1, 2]. The 26-man squad size aligns with FIFA regulations for the tournament [1, 2].
Preparations now turn toward final training camps and the first World Cup fixtures, where Norway will aim to progress from the group stage beginning in November 2026.