Tension filled the arena before the game began as a wave of boos drowned out the U.S. national anthem, turning the pre-game ceremony into an unexpected flashpoint.
Fans at Montreal’s Bell Centre stirred controversy on Saturday night (February 16, 2025), loudly booing the U.S. national anthem before the highly anticipated Four Nations Face-Off game between Team USA and Team Canada.
The reaction from the crowd continued for the entire duration of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” sung by warrant officer David Grenon of the Royal Canadian Air Force Band.
Many fans at the Bell Centre boo The Star-Spangled Banner pic.twitter.com/LLbI0PCGl6
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) February 16, 2025
Videos circulating online captured the moment, with many noting the volume of the booing. Reports described a “good deal of booing for the U.S. anthem” as Grenon performed.The incident added to a growing trend of Canadian fans voicing discontent during American national anthems at sporting events.
A good deal of booing for the U.S. anthem as expected. #4Nations pic.twitter.com/BkgDZnwL8G
— Alex M. Silvermanšā½ļø (@AlexMSilverman) February 16, 2025