On the same day the White House announced that President Donald Trump had signed a presidential memorandum to target Canadian goods in federal government procurement for removal purposes, the NFL’s Buffalo Bills paid tribute to their Canadian fans by engaging in a game of cross-border catch on the Niagara River.
The memorandum signed by Trump on Wednesday marks the latest development in an intensifying trade dispute between the U.S. and Canada following failed negotiations last month. This action followed a previous decision to prohibit the import of Canadian alcohol, motorcycles, and other items into the United States.
In anticipation of their home opener scheduled for 8 p.m. E.T. at the new Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, the Bills have been actively celebrating their Canadian fan base. A video shared on social media platform X showcased former Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and retired wide receiver Stevie Johnson making cross-border catches from separate ferries on the Niagara River.
Niagara Parks, the Ontario organization overseeing the Canadian side of the Niagara River, confirmed that the successful boat-to-boat passes will be featured during the broadcast of the Buffalo Bills’ first 2026 home game on Thursday, September 17, as part of the NFL on Prime coverage.
Furthermore, the Buffalo Bills’ Chief Strategy Officer, Kate Hussmann, expressed excitement over the unique event, emphasizing the strong connection with fans from Southern Ontario. The Bills’ participation in the NFL’s Global Markets Program provides them with official international marketing and fan engagement rights in Canada.
In a recent social media post, the team announced that both “O Canada” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” will be performed before their home opener against the Detroit Lions. Actress and singer AuliÊ»i Cravalho will sing the American anthem, while Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies is set to perform “O Canada.”
While the Canadian national anthem is uncommon at NFL games, it is a regular feature at National Hockey League games in Buffalo, even during matchups against American teams. Notably, fans at KeyBank Center in Buffalo sang “O Canada” in unison after a technical issue with the microphone before a Sabres playoff game versus the Boston Bruins in April.
By Matt Barnes