The Buffalo Bills will perform both the American and Canadian national anthems before their inaugural game at the new Highmark Stadium. The team announced that Auliʻi Cravalho, known for voicing Moana, will sing 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' while the Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies will perform 'O Canada' ahead of the Week 2 matchup against the Detroit Lions.
This marks the first time the anthems will be performed at the new stadium. The move is not unprecedented in Buffalo; the NHL's Buffalo Sabres, also owned by the Pegula Family, play the Canadian anthem before every game. This practice is often attributed to the significant Canadian fanbase in Buffalo, including numerous season ticket holders, due to the city's proximity to the border.
While the decision was reportedly well-received by many in the Buffalo area, it has generated considerable backlash from some NFL fans across the United States. Critics questioned the necessity of playing a foreign national anthem, with some stating it was inappropriate for American sporting events.
Some fans expressed their displeasure on social media, with comments ranging from calls of the decision being "ridiculous" to "a slap in the face to every American business owner who has become victim to politics." Other reactions included sarcasm about the team potentially moving to Canada or questioning why the Canadian anthem would be played when Canada does not have a football team in the league.
The Bills roster includes three players who are Canadian citizens: wide receiver Josh Palmer and linebacker Michael Hoecht, both born in Ontario, and tight end Dalton Kincaid, who holds both American and Canadian passports. The team is set to begin its season on the road against the Houston Texans before their home opener.
