I probably don’t need to tell you that the soccer world cup is underway at the moment in South Africa. Here in Canada we are following it too. I have to say that it is pretty low key compared to 1. Hockey and 2. the Olympics. Of course Canada is not in the competition so that has to make a difference.
Whenever there is a sporting event or some occasion for national pride (such as Canada Day) cars begin to sprout flags. The most frequent sign of this is for hockey, especially during the playoff season. Vancouver Canucks flags appear on most cars it seems.
Does the same apply for the world cup? Not so much! Sure, there are flags but they are few and far between. The nations involved in the world cup do show their support by flying the appropriate flag. I have seen South African, English, Mexican, Italian, French and Greek flags on cars as I’ve been out and about in the last couple of weeks.
I can’t say that there is anything like the level of excitement we saw with the Olympics or even a hockey playoff game. Not really surprising given the low level of interest in soccer here or the fact that Canada is not in the world cup.
I was talking to someone today, who was born in England but came here as a child. He told me that he is flying the St George’s cross on his car but he doesn’t like soccer and has not actually watched any of the games. He did want to show his support by flying the flag. I guess he is simply letting the world know that he has English roots. And he told me his Dad is pleased!
