Canadian Fans Express Mixed Feelings Ahead of World Cup Amid US Tensions

As Canada prepares to co-host the World Cup with the US, fans are expressing mixed feelings due to ongoing political tensions. Many Canadians are hesitant to set aside their grievances, citing recent remarks from US President Donald Trump and trade disputes. While some advocate for enjoying the tournament regardless of politics, others feel strongly about boycotting US products and travel. This article explores the sentiments of Canadian fans as they navigate their excitement for soccer amidst these challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 18:00 IST

Celebrating Soccer with a Heavy Heart

Dressed in Canadian attire, complete with a red cowboy hat and a maple leaf painted on her face, Catherine Paternal was all set to cheer for Canada’s national soccer team. However, she feels conflicted about co-hosting the World Cup with the United States. Recently, US President Donald Trump has reignited discussions about potentially making Canada the 51st state and has hinted at not renewing the trilateral trade agreement involving the US, Canada, and Mexico, the three nations hosting this year's tournament.

Paternal, a 44-year-old from Mississauga, expressed her concerns, stating, “The World Cup symbolizes unity among nations. Currently, I don’t see the US as a model for that.” The US President has also imposed tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and automobiles, accusing Canada of exploiting the US. Many Canadians have responded by boycotting American products and canceling trips to the US, with most expressing reluctance to set aside their sentiments during the World Cup.

Linda Anson, a 68-year-old from Toronto, firmly stated she would not travel to the US for matches, citing Trump’s comments as a significant factor. She expressed a desire for the World Cup to be hosted solely in Canada and Mexico, emphasizing, “We are a sovereign nation.” Liam Delaney, a Canadian supporter, rushed to the Toronto Stadium after work to watch his team’s opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina, voicing his discontent with the US President's impact on North American football.

He remarked, “He is tarnishing the image of football for us. It’s embarrassing.” A recent poll by Abacus Data revealed that 80% of Canadians believe the US is heading in the wrong direction, while another survey from Nanos indicated that 53% think boycotting US goods and travel has positively influenced Canada’s stance with the US.

However, not everyone shares this viewpoint. Mauricio Gonzalez, a Mexican Canadian, advocates for setting aside political tensions temporarily. “Let’s just enjoy soccer for a month, and we can address everything else later,” he suggested.

Canada has collaborated closely with its co-hosts to ensure the World Cup's success, with Bahoz Dara Aziz, a spokesperson for Canada’s secretary of state for sports, noting positive engagement with the US and Mexico. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle mentioned that the World Cup necessitates close cooperation among US partners and FIFA, without specifically addressing the co-hosting nations.

The prestigious soccer tournament is taking place across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, following their selection as joint hosts during Trump’s first term in 2018. Canada is set to play its second match against Qatar in Vancouver on Thursday. Catherine Thomas, a resident of Oshawa, reflected on a time when the US and Canada were strong allies, stating, “When we began this World Cup journey, the US and Canada were still friends. I don’t feel that way now.”

Even Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced scrutiny as fans questioned his absence from the first World Cup game on home soil, as he opted to attend the US opening match in Los Angeles with pop star Katy Perry, who had performed at the ceremony. He later posted on social media, “Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup.”