MLS Fans’ National Anthem Disrespect Sparks Outrage and Vancouver Whitecaps Star’s Condemnation

Political Tensions Spill Into Sports as Canadians Boo U.S. Anthem at MLS Match
(Image: Vancouver Whitecaps fans booing during the U.S. national anthem at BC Place)

The ongoing political rift between the U.S. and Canada reached the soccer pitch over the weekend when Vancouver Whitecaps fans loudly booed The Star-Spangled Banner ahead of their MLS clash with LA Galaxy. The incident mirrored recent NHL anthem disputes, fueled by former President Donald Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian goods and his provocative remarks about annexing Canada.

American forward Brian White, a New Jersey native, subtly criticized the hostile reception. Post-match, he thanked fans who “showed respect for the flag” while sidestepping political commentary: “Obviously there’s issues. It’s not my business.”

(Image: Brian White during the game)

Online Fury and Calls for MLS Expulsion
U.S. fans erupted on social media, with some demanding Canadian teams be removed from MLS. “Boo them back,” one user wrote, while another quipped, “Send them to the CPL [Canadian Premier League].” Others referenced Trump’s taunts: “Nobody cares what the 51st state thinks.”

Trump’s Tariff Threat Looms
(Image: Donald Trump at a press conference)
The anthem booing follows Trump’s pledge to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports starting March 4, citing insufficient action on drug trafficking. Although paused briefly after Canada pledged $1.3 billion for border security, Trump reignited tensions last week, vowing to proceed with tariffs and describing Canada as “unacceptable” allies.

Anthem Wars Spread to WWE and NHL
The feud escalated beyond soccer. At a WWE event in Toronto, fans drowned out the U.S. anthem, prompting commentator Pat McAfee to label Canada “terrible.” Meanwhile, during the 4 Nations hockey tournament, U.S. and Canadian fans exchanged anthem jeers. After Canada’s overtime win in the final, PM Justin Trudeau tweeted, “You can’t take our country—and you can’t take our game.”

(Image: Hockey rivalry between U.S. and Canada teams)

Rangers Fans Retaliate in NHL Clash
The animosity trickled into NHL games. New York Rangers fans booed O Canada before facing the Toronto Maple Leafs last Friday, a rare display in typically liberal NYC. The Leafs triumphed 3-2, despite Team USA captain Auston Matthews playing for Toronto.

A Lingering Rivalry
Trump’s rhetoric has intensified patriotism—and hostility—on both sides. From tariffs to teasing annexation, the political strain has turned sports arenas into battlegrounds, underscoring a diplomatic chill unseen since the 19th century. As Trump labels Trudeau “Governor” and fans trade jeers, the once-friendly rivalry grows increasingly charged.

(Image: U.S. and Canadian flags side by side, frayed at the edges)

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