Canadian NHL fans booed the U.S. national anthem during a February 1, 2025, game between the Ottawa Senators and Minnesota Wild. The backlash followed President Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on Canadian imports, heightening tensions between the two countries. The Senators won 6-0, but the incident highlighted growing political discord.
During an NHL game between the Ottawa Senators and the Minnesota Wild on February 1, 2025, tensions between Canada and the U.S. reached a boiling point as Canadian fans booed the American national anthem. The incident occurred just before the game at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ontario when Ottawa-based singer Mandia performed "The Star-Spangled Banner." The jeers came in response to President Donald Trump's recent announcement of a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, a decision that has angered many Canadians. The tariffs, set to take effect on February 4, 2025, are part of a broader trade dispute between the U.S. and Canada, sparked by Trump's concerns over issues like fentanyl and illegal immigration.
The crowd's reaction highlighted the rising frustrations in Canada over the new trade measures, which have prompted retaliatory tariffs on American goods. Despite the boos, Mandia continued her performance without missing a beat. The situation further intensified the already strained relations between the two countries.
While the political drama unfolded, the Ottawa Senators gave their home crowd something to cheer about, securing a 6-0 victory over the Minnesota Wild. However, the booing incident during the anthem underscored the growing tension between the U.S. and Canada under Trump's administration, with both sides seemingly entrenched in their positions. The effects of these political clashes may continue to impact international relations in the years to come.
