Hockey fans in Montreal loudly boo American anthem at Canada-U.S. 4 Nations matchup
Hockey fans in Montreal made headlines on Saturday night as they loudly booed the American national anthem before passionately singing O Canada ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off showdown between Canada and the United States. The Bell Centre crowd welcomed the Canadian team with cheers and excitement as they skated onto the ice, introduced by MMA fighter Georges St-Pierre.
However, the mood quickly shifted when warrant officer David Grenon of the Royal Canadian Air Force Band began singing The Star-Spangled Banner and fans started jeering from the stands. Despite the public address announcer’s request for respect, Montreal spectators continued to boo during the American anthem. This changed when Grenon transitioned to O Canada, encouraging fans to sing along. The crowd enthusiastically belted out the Canadian anthem, showcasing their patriotism and unity.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in attendance, witnessing the emotional display from the fans. The energy in the arena escalated even further when three fights broke out within the first nine seconds of the game. Players from both teams engaged in intense physical battles, adding to the intensity of the rivalry between Canada and the United States.
The disruption of the American anthem at Canadian sporting events has become a trend in recent weeks, reflecting the political tensions between the two countries. Fans have expressed their disapproval through booing at various events, including NHL games and basketball games. The ongoing trade disputes and tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump have contributed to the strained relationship between Canada and the United States.
Despite the controversy surrounding the anthem booing, players and coaches have called for respect for both anthems. Team Canada star Connor McDavid emphasized the importance of honoring all anthems, while U.S. captain Auston Matthews acknowledged the situation. The rivalry between the two nations remains intense on the ice, with fans showing unwavering support for their respective teams.
The 4 Nations Face-Off serves as a prelude to the NHL’s return to the Olympics in 2026, with NHL players looking forward to representing their countries on the international stage. The tournament has already showcased thrilling matches and fierce competition, with Canada and the United States vying for supremacy. As the event moves to Boston for the next round-robin games, fans can expect more exciting hockey action leading up to the final next Thursday. The passion and enthusiasm of the fans in Montreal have set the stage for a memorable and thrilling tournament.
