Norway’s national team doctor, Ola Sand, has firmly denied circulating reports claiming that the Scandinavian players have been hit by a severe virus just days before their highly anticipated 2026 World Cup quarter-final match against England.
British media outlets had reported that multiple Norwegian players were suffering from an acute illness. These rumors intensified after head coach Ståle Solbakken previously hinted at his concerns regarding constant travel, temperature fluctuations, and frequent exposure to air conditioning in stadiums and hotels.
Norway’s Medical Staff Mocks British Press Reports
Responding decisively to these claims, Dr. Ola Sand told reporters:
“There hasn’t been any major drama inside the camp, especially considering that we’ve been living in close proximity to each other for nearly six weeks.”
He added, mockingly addressing the British media reports:
“It’s wonderful that they [the British] actually believe this. We are completely in control of the situation.”
Solbakken Clarifies the Squad’s Health Status
To prevent further exaggeration, head coach Ståle Solbakken stepped in to clarify the actual health condition of his traveling delegation:
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Forward Jørgen Strand Larsen was the only player to briefly suffer from a fever.
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A few minor cases of coughing appeared among some members of the staff and squad.
Solbakken explained:
“There is air conditioning, continuous flights, changing rooms, and all of that. We have a delegation of 50 people traveling, so it would be quite strange if nothing at all showed up, like a minor cough.”
Norway has been the dark horse of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, pulling off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by eliminating Brazil in the Round of 16. A stunning brace by superstar Erling Haaland at MetLife Stadium secured their spot against the Three Lions in the quarter-finals.
