Statement By The Prime Minister Of Canada

July 11, 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on Spain’s victory at the FIFA World Cup being held in South Africa.  
 
“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to take this opportunity to offer my congratulations for the victory of Spain’s national team at the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa earlier today.
 
“To people around the world watching this important sporting event, your national team offered an impressive performance and showed tremendous dedication, determination and talent.

“Canadians from coast to coast to coast have been following the World Cup with great enthusiasm and fervour.  The passionate fan base across this country for each participating team is a vivid demonstration of both Canada’s multicultural heritage and the uniting power of sport, especially ‘the beautiful game.’  
 
“This sentiment was captured brilliantly by Somali Canadian K’naan in his song ‘Wavin' Flag,’ which was adopted as the anthem of this year’s competition.
 
“I would also like to congratulate the Netherlands, the runners up, and indeed all participating teams for providing soccer fans in Canada and around the world with such exciting moments in sport.
 
“This exciting tournament has captured the imagination of soccer players and fans alike.  We are all inspired by our shared goal of seeing Team Canada again in the World Cup and hopeful that it will be as soon as Brazil 2014!”