The American-born head coach of Canada's national football team has delivered a stinging rebuke to former US President Donald Trump, stating he is 'ashamed' of repeated suggestions that Canada should become the 51st US state.
Ahead of the World Cup Draw, a Political Rebuke
Jesse Marsch, who was born in Wisconsin, made his comments during a media briefing for the Concacaf Nations League Finals in Inglewood, California. His stern words came just before the crucial draw for the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for Friday, 5th December 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
"If I have one message to our president, it's lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state," Marsch stated. "As an American, I'm ashamed of the arrogance and disregard that we've shown one of our historically oldest, strongest and most loyal allies."
He described President Trump's ongoing comments as 'unsettling and quite frankly insulting'.
Marsch Praises Canadian Values
Marsch, who took charge of the Canadian national side in May 2024, contrasted the political climate in the United States with the values he has encountered in his role. "Canada is a strong, independent nation that is deep-rooted in decency," he asserted.
"Unlike the polarised, disrespectful and often hate-fueled climate in the US, Canada values fairness and unity," Marsch continued. "It's a place – that I've learned as the national team coach – where people believe that their differences make them stronger."
He expressed immense pride in his position, saying he had found a country that embodies the ideals of integrity, respect, and collective achievement.
Background and Tournament Details
The controversy stems from remarks Donald Trump reportedly made to former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while president-elect, suggesting statehood to avoid tariffs. The president has since reiterated the point through memes and AI-generated imagery.
The diplomatic spat unfolds as the three host nations prepare for the 2026 tournament. The 48-team field will be drawn into 12 groups of four, with 32 teams advancing to the knockout stage.
The host nations' match schedules are now confirmed:
- Mexico will open the tournament on 11th June at the Estadio Azteca.
- The United States and Canada will play their first matches on 12th June, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and BMO Field in Toronto respectively.
Of the 104 matches, 78 will be held in the USA, with Canada and Mexico each hosting 13 games. Despite their automatic qualification, none of the host nations are currently favoured by bookmakers to win the tournament, with Spain, England, and France leading the odds.
