Greensboro Welcomes Team Norway
“UNCG is proud to support an international team of this caliber as it prepares to compete on the world stage,” stated UNCG Chancellor Franklin D. Gilliam, Jr. This announcement marks a significant milestone for Greensboro, North Carolina, as the city has been named the Team Base Camp for the Norwegian National Football Team ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) will serve as the training facility for Team Norway, reflecting the university’s commitment to fostering international sports. The Greensboro Sports Foundation led the local organizing committee in partnership with the City of Greensboro, UNCG, and the Greensboro Convention & Visitors Bureau to secure this prestigious opportunity.
Greensboro’s selection as a base camp is not only a testament to its strong partnerships but also highlights UNCG’s outstanding facilities. Mayor Marikay Abuzuaiter remarked, “This selection reflects the strength of our partnerships, UNCG’s outstanding facilities, and our city’s commitment to international athletics.” The collaboration among local entities aims to create a welcoming environment for the Norwegian team as they prepare for the global event.
In addition to the logistical advantages, hosting Team Norway is expected to contribute an estimated $4.2 million to Greensboro’s local economy. This economic boost is welcomed by local businesses and stakeholders who anticipate increased activity in the area as the team trains and prepares for their matches.
Greensboro has a legacy as a destination for professional sports in the Southeast, having previously served as a training facility for Brazil’s SE Palmeiras during the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. Richard Beard, President of the Greensboro Sports Foundation, emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “It elevates Greensboro’s reputation as a global ‘tournament town’ and showcases our community’s world-class facilities and hospitality on the international stage.”
As the city gears up for the World Cup, the University of North Carolina’s basketball team is also making headlines. The Tar Heels received a double bye into the quarterfinal round as the No. 4 seed in the 2026 ACC Tournament, seeking their first tournament title since 2016. With a record of 24-7 entering the postseason, UNC has a storied history in the ACC Tournament, having won 18 championships with an overall record of 110-53.
The 2026 ACC Tournament is set to begin on March 10, 2026, at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, where UNC hopes to continue its success. As the Tar Heels prepare for their postseason run, the excitement in Greensboro is palpable, with both the local community and sports fans looking forward to a vibrant season ahead.
