Norway’s heat training and Nike advert slip spotlight World Cup 2026 buildup

Norway’s national team is adapting to the hot summer conditions expected in the United States, Canada and Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Training sessions have shown players removing shirts, socks and shoes to cope with the blazing sun as they prepare for their first World Cup appearance in 28 years, with Norway set to open against Iraq on June 17.

In parallel, Nike launched a six‑minute World Cup advertising campaign featuring global football stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. The video mistakenly showed England midfielder Cole Palmer wearing the Three Lions kit, although he was omitted from England’s final 26‑man squad by manager Gareth Southgate. The error was quickly noted by fans and media.

Both stories underline the logistical and promotional challenges ahead of the tournament hosted across North America.