All Whites midfielder Joe Bell is soaking the kiwi summer at home in Wānaka, still basking in the glory of helping Norwegian club Viking FK end a 34-year league title wait.

Earlier this month, the Eliteserien title race went down to the final game of the season, with rivals Bodø/Glimt just one point behind Viking FK at the top of the table.

Bell’s side stormed to victory with a 5-1 win over Vålerenga, as fans and even Norway’s Education Minister invaded the pitch in the title celebrations.
 

The result not only secured league silverware but also qualification for a play-off match for next season’s Champions League.

It means 2026 has the potential to be the biggest year in the 26-year-old midfielder’s career, as today marks six months to go for FIFA World Cup in North America.

All Whites midfielder Joe Bell said the league title victory was unforgettable.

“It was a lot of mixed emotions, quite emotional at the end once everything settled down. But that immediate moment was kind of just, yeah, letting it settle in and trying to take in as much as you can."

“It was so tight and head-to-head that there were a lot of nerves going into that last game. So when that final whistle went, the flush of emotions and seeing the fans run on, it was really cool and special, and we had the opportunity to celebrate with the fans and the city afterwards.”

“There's an opportunity that next year it could be playing in my first World Cup and also the Champions League, which I think for any footballer would be ticking some of the two biggest boxes you can tick.”

“I think representing New Zealand at a World Cup is nearly at the top in terms of achievements. So, I think walking out with the team would be a huge honour and something I'd be super proud to do.”

“Now it's obviously making sure I'm in the best shape to do that and give Baze enough reasons to choose me to be one of the 11 but also I think it's 26 that's going to be with us at the World Cup and supporting and helping the team and I think that's going to be the most important thing.”

“So obviously, making the most of it while I'm home now and having the chance to relax slightly and get the head away from the football to go into the year with a fresh mind is going to be important.”

Article added: Tuesday 16 December 2025