- Trump mocked Canada as the “51st state” before the US-Canada hockey final.
- His comments added tension to an already heated sports rivalry.
- Both teams will battle for victory in Boston tonight.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited tensions with Canada on Thursday, jokingly referring to the country as the United States’ “51st state” ahead of a high-stakes hockey final in Boston.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Trump’s remarks came as Team USA prepared to face Canada in the championship match of the Four Nations Face-Off tournament, which also featured Finland and Sweden.
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The buildup to the game has been intense, fueled by past on-ice altercations and Trump’s trade policies, including tariffs on Canadian imports.
During a morning practice session, Trump called the U.S. team to wish them luck. Later, he posted on Truth Social: “Spurring them on towards victory tonight against Canada, which with FAR LOWER TAXES AND MUCH STRONGER SECURITY, will someday, maybe soon, become our cherished, and very important, Fifty First State.”
Trump’s dig at Canada was paired with a jab at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whom he mockingly referred to as a “governor” rather than a head of state.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed the sentiment, saying, “We look forward to the United States beating our soon-to-be 51st state.”
Despite the trash talk, Trump also shared enthusiasm for the game, saying, “Good luck to everybody, and have a GREAT game tonight. So exciting!”
The rivalry between the two hockey powerhouses has grown increasingly heated. Their last encounter in Montreal saw fights break out within the first nine seconds, and Canadian fans booed the U.S. national anthem. Many see the heightened emotions on the ice as a reflection of the ongoing political tensions between the two nations.
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With Canadian national pride deeply tied to hockey, local media outlets have framed the game as more than just a final, it’s a statement. According to a Rogers survey, over 75% of Canadians see hockey as core to their national identity.
As the puck drops, the competition will be fierce, with both teams aiming to claim bragging rights, and for Canada, perhaps a little redemption.
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