However, besides competing in expertise, we can completely think about spreading Vietnamese culture right in this playground.
At the 2026 World Cup, along with impressive performances, the Norwegian team and fans of this country had a world-shaking "boat ride". Experts say that if we ignore goals and professional factors, if we have to choose a symbolic image to become a mass cultural heritage at the 2026 World Cup, it must definitely be the "Viking Row" celebration of the Norwegian team and fans.
The spread of "Viking Row" is not just a social media phenomenon. It is proof of how a country tells its historical and cultural story in the language of modern football, turning local identity into a universal global message.
Clearly, with a large world-class playground, spreading cultural values will create strong resonance.
So what about Vietnam? Of course, attending the World Cup is a long story, but in the lens of culture combined with sports, Vietnam not only has athletes eager to conquer medals, but also a treasure trove of traditional sports, folk games, traditional martial arts and community mobilization forms rich in identity. The question is how to make those values not only live in village festivals, community memories, but also be able to confidently present in major arenas.
Every time we talk about sports in regional, continental or world arenas, we often immediately think of achievements, rankings, medals, and records. That is completely justified, because top sports always need competition, hard work and a desire to win.
But sports also have a broader mission: Introducing the image of the country, people, cultural identity and national spirit. An athlete stepping onto the arena not only carries the colors of the flag, but also carries the demeanor, will, behavior and even the cultural story of his country.
With Vietnam, that story is very rich. Tug of war, stick pushing, crossbow shooting, national wrestling, boat racing, boat racing, human chess, traditional martial arts, folk games in festivals... are not simply fun activities or competitions. It is sports, culture, community memories, a connecting link between generations, a place to nurture the spirit of martial arts, solidarity, love for homeland and national pride.
If properly exploited, that treasure can become a special soft resource for Vietnam to spread culture at major sports events.
To spread Vietnamese culture in major arenas, it is not necessary for all traditional sports to become international competition content. There are many ways to be present.
At major sports events, Vietnam can introduce traditional sports through opening and closing ceremonies, cultural spaces, sideline activities, athlete exchange programs, and experience areas for international audiences. A delicately staged traditional martial arts performance, a community tug-of-war game, a space to introduce human chess, stick pushing, crossbow shooting, national wrestling... can create a strong impression no less than ordinary tourism promotion images.
Traditional sports can also become a part of cultural diplomacy. Vietnamese sports delegations when participating in international events can bring not only athletes and coaches, but also cultural stories told in images, videos, costumes, rituals, and digital media products. Each tournament is an opportunity to tell a Vietnamese story.
Spreading Vietnamese culture is not only through introductions, but also through experiences, images, spirit and specific people. Large arenas are therefore not only places to compete, but also places where Vietnam tells its story to the world: A country rich in identity, loving peace, valuing affection, with martial spirit, solidarity and always confidently stepping into integration.
