Maple News Wire: Latest News on Elections, Celebrities, Politics, Finance, Travel, and Food in Canadian Cities

Over 400 RCMP Officers Named in Misconduct Files Last Year

February 4, 2026

Over 400 RCMP Members Faced Misconduct Allegations in 2024

OTTAWA — More than 400 members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police faced misconduct allegations in 2024, according to a new RCMP conduct report.

In total, 443 misconduct files were opened last year. These files involved 408 officers and civilian employees across all ranks.

The report said these cases represent less than two per cent of the RCMP’s total workforce.

Types of Misconduct Allegations

Discreditable conduct remained the most common allegation category in 2024. This category includes improper social media use, sexual misconduct, and alleged Criminal Code violations.

Other allegations included misuse of equipment and failure to follow lawful orders. Some cases involved conflicts of interest and unauthorized access to information.

The report showed that most ranks were proportionally represented. Constables accounted for 61 per cent of cases.

This figure exceeded their 54 per cent share of the RCMP workforce. Civilian employees appeared underrepresented in misconduct allegations.

Disciplinary Actions Increased

The report highlighted a shift toward stricter disciplinary outcomes in 2024. Remedial measures such as coaching and training declined compared to the previous year.

Corrective actions increased and included written reprimands and financial penalties. Serious penalties also rose during the reporting period.

Five per cent of cases resulted in dismissals or forced resignations. This marked a sharp increase from 2023.

The RCMP also used interim measures more frequently. These included suspensions with pay and temporary reassignment during investigations.

Accountability and Oversight Measures

The misconduct data came from the annual RCMP conduct management report. Federal policy requires this report to ensure transparency.

The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission continues to oversee public complaints independently. It reviews investigations and ensures fairness.

The RCMP said the findings reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and professional standards. Officials said transparency helps rebuild public trust and encourages internal reform while maintaining confidence in policing institutions nationwide across Canada.

Former Prime Ministers Harper and Chrétien Call for National Unity

Olivia Willson

February 3, 2026

Former Prime Ministers Harper and Chrétien Call for National Unity

Harper, Chrétien Call for National Unity in Ottawa

OTTAWA — Former prime minister Stephen Harper said there is no reason Canada cannot come together. He shared this message during a public conversation with former prime minister Jean Chrétien.

The discussion took place at an event hosted by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. Both leaders reflected on Canada’s political climate and national identity.

Harper Rejects Alberta Separation Talk

Harper said he did not sign a petition calling for Alberta to leave Canada. He clarified that he had no role in any separatist effort.

He stressed that federal leaders should focus on unity, not division. Harper said Canadians share more values than differences.

Chrétien supported this view and expressed confidence in the country’s future. He said Canada has overcome stronger divisions in the past.

Concerns Around Regional Separatism

The two former leaders discussed growing separatist sentiment in parts of the country. They acknowledged political frustration in Alberta and Quebec.

Harper said such movements often rise during times of economic and political uncertainty. He added that dialogue remains essential.

Chrétien said Canadians benefit when leaders lower tensions. He emphasized compromise and cooperation.

Global Pressures and National Identity

The conversation also touched on global political shifts. Harper said international instability has renewed focus on sovereignty and independence.

He noted that external pressures often strengthen national identity. Chrétien agreed and said Canada remains well positioned globally.

Both leaders said strong institutions help Canada navigate uncertainty.

A Shared Message to Canadians

Despite political differences, Harper and Chrétien delivered a unified message. They urged Canadians to focus on shared goals.

They said national unity requires patience, respect, and leadership. Both former prime ministers expressed optimism about Canada’s future.

The discussion unfolded against rising U.S.–Canada tensions, trade uncertainty, and global instability, reinforcing the urgency of unity, steady leadership, and cooperation during a politically sensitive period.

Thousands March in Toronto in Support of Iranian Protesters

Olivia Willson

February 2, 2026

Thousands March in Toronto in Support of Iranian Protesters

Thousands Rally in Downtown Toronto to Support Iranian Protesters

Toronto, ON — Thousands gathered in downtown Toronto on Sunday to support ongoing protests in Iran. The rally took place near Sankofa Square and expanded into nearby streets.

Protesters waved Iranian flags and held photographs of victims killed during unrest. Many signs called for freedom, justice, and an end to authoritarian rule in Iran.

Crowds marched peacefully through the city core. Toronto police closed several roads to manage the large turnout. Officers reported no major incidents during the demonstration.

Calls for Change and Accountability

Participants said they wanted to amplify voices silenced inside Iran. Many accused Iranian authorities of using violence against peaceful protesters.

Speakers addressed the crowd from a temporary stage. They urged democratic reforms and international accountability. Some demanded stronger global sanctions against Iran’s leadership.

Several demonstrators shared personal stories. Many said their families still live in Iran under fear. Others described losing relatives during recent crackdowns.

Background of the Iranian Protests

Protests in Iran began over economic hardship. They quickly turned into broader political demonstrations. Citizens demanded freedom, dignity, and an end to repression.

Human rights groups report thousands of deaths during the unrest. Security forces have faced global criticism for excessive force. Iranian authorities continue to deny wrongdoing.

The situation has drawn worldwide attention. Iranian diaspora communities have organized rallies across Europe and North America.

Canadian Response and Global Solidarity

Toronto’s rally formed part of a wider global movement. Similar protests occurred in Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal.

Demonstrators urged Canada to take a stronger diplomatic stance. Many asked Ottawa to defend human rights more aggressively on the international stage.

Organizers emphasized peaceful resistance. Volunteers helped guide crowds and prevent disruptions. The event concluded calmly after several hours.

A Message Beyond Borders

Participants said visibility matters. They believe international pressure can influence change. Many promised to continue protesting until meaningful reform occurs.

The rally ended with chants for freedom. Protesters dispersed quietly as evening approached.

Khamenei Warns U.S. Attack Would Spark Regional War as Trump Signals Talks

Global

Willy

February 1, 2026

Khamenei Warns U.S. Attack Would Spark Regional War as Trump Signals Talks

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued his sharpest warning yet to the United States on Sunday, saying any American military attack on Iran would ignite a “regional war” across the Middle East, as tensions surge amid nationwide protests and U.S. military movements near Iranian waters.

Khamenei’s remarks come as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to publicly weigh military options while insisting Tehran is “seriously talking” with Washington over negotiations, including Iran’s nuclear program.

Speaking at his compound in Tehran during commemorations marking the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the 86-year-old leader accused the U.S. of seeking to “seize” Iran’s natural resources and framed recent unrest as an attempted coup.

“The Americans must be aware that if they wage a war this time, it will be a regional war,” Khamenei said, adding that Iran would respond with “a heavy blow” to any attack.

The warning follows the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to the Arabian Sea, a move ordered by Trump after Iran’s violent crackdown on protests that erupted in late December over economic collapse and rapidly escalated into direct challenges to Khamenei’s rule.

Human rights groups estimate tens of thousands have been detained and thousands killed, figures Iran strongly disputes. Iranian authorities have labeled many protesters “seditionists,” a charge that can carry the death penalty — a scenario Trump has described as a red line for U.S. military action.

Further escalating tensions, Iran announced live-fire military drills in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of global oil trade passes. U.S. Central Command has warned Tehran against threatening American forces or disrupting commercial shipping.

At the same time, Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared all European Union militaries “terrorist groups,” retaliating after the EU designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization over its role in the crackdown. Lawmakers punctuated the announcement with chants of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.”

Trump, meanwhile, has remained deliberately ambiguous. Speaking to reporters en route to Florida, he declined to confirm whether he had decided on military action but reiterated that Iran must reach a “satisfactory” deal to prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons.

“I don’t know that they will,” Trump said. “But they are talking to us. Seriously talking to us.”

As protests, sanctions, military posturing, and nuclear tensions converge, analysts warn the standoff risks tipping from brinkmanship into a wider regional conflict — one with global economic and security implications.

Alberta Separatists Admit “High-Level” U.S. Talks, Refuse Names

Politics

Willy

February 1, 2026

Alberta Separatists Admit “High-Level” U.S. Talks, Refuse Names

An Alberta separatist group says it has been holding “very high level” meetings with U.S. officials linked to President Donald Trump’s administration — but refuses to name who exactly is involved, triggering sharp political backlash across Canada.

In an interview on CTV’s Question Period, Alberta Prosperity Project legal counsel Jeffrey Rath confirmed the group has met U.S. officials over the past year but cited confidentiality agreements as the reason for withholding identities.

Asked whether Canadians would recognize the officials, Rath replied “probably,” while declining to confirm whether Stephen Miller was among them. He did, however, clarify that Donald Trump himself was not involved.

The controversy escalated after a Financial Times report claimed the group was exploring a potential $500-billion credit facility with U.S. officials and financial institutions in the event Alberta votes for independence. Rath later dismissed the report as “fake news,” acknowledging meetings with U.S. State Department officials but denying that any agreements or funding requests were made.

The issue dominated discussions at the first ministers’ meeting in Ottawa, where B.C. Premier David Eby labeled the group’s actions “treason.” U.S. officials, speaking on background, told CTV News that meetings with civil society groups are routine and that “no commitments were made.”

Prime Minister Mark Carney avoided directly calling the situation foreign interference but stressed he expects the U.S. to respect Canadian sovereignty.

Defending the meetings, Rath said the Alberta Prosperity Project is not seeking U.S. money but is instead studying access to credit should Ottawa restrict provincial funds after a hypothetical declaration of independence.

“The entire world runs on credit,” Rath said, adding that “nobody is independent in the modern world.”

Fuel was added to the fire after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described Alberta as a “natural partner” for the United States and suggested the province should expand oil shipments south of the border — remarks Rath says validate the group’s outreach.

As Alberta separatists work to collect 178,000 signatures to trigger a referendum, the episode underscores rising tensions around sovereignty, foreign influence, and Canada–U.S. relations at a particularly fragile moment.

New Epstein Files Put Musk, Gates, and Lutnick Under Scrutiny

Olivia Willson

January 31, 2026

New Epstein Files Put Musk, Gates, and Lutnick Under Scrutiny

New Epstein Files Renew Scrutiny of Powerful US Figures

A fresh release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents has renewed scrutiny of several high-profile American figures.

The United States Department of Justice released millions of pages of previously sealed records. The disclosure followed a federal transparency law passed in 2025.

The documents include emails, travel discussions, and contact records linked to Epstein’s network.

Emails Raise Questions About Elite Connections

The files show email exchanges involving Elon Musk and Bill Gates.

Some emails from 2012 and 2013 show Epstein communicating with Musk about travel and social meetings. The messages reference Epstein’s private island. There is no proof Musk visited the island.

Musk has denied any close relationship with Epstein. He previously said he declined invitations and limited contact.

The documents also include a claim by Epstein involving Bill Gates and a medical request. Gates strongly denied the allegation. His spokesperson described the claim as false and misleading.

Gates has acknowledged meeting Epstein but said he regretted the interaction.

Howard Lutnick Also Named in Records

The files also mention Howard Lutnick, currently serving as U.S. Commerce Secretary.

Epstein’s correspondence refers to a potential lunch meeting and a possible island visit in 2012. No evidence shows the visit occurred.

Lutnick’s office stated he had minimal contact with Epstein. Officials emphasized there are no accusations of wrongdoing.

Lutnick has previously said he cut ties after recognizing Epstein’s conduct.

Transparency Law Drives Disclosure

Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act to force the release of unclassified materials.

Lawmakers argued the public deserved clarity on Epstein’s connections with influential individuals.

The Justice Department released the records with some redactions to protect privacy and ongoing legal matters.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Debate

The document release has triggered widespread public reaction and debate.

Advocacy groups for Epstein’s victims criticized the remaining redactions. They argue transparency remains incomplete.

Experts say the files show how Epstein maintained elite access long after earlier criminal charges.

The scrutiny highlights broader concerns about accountability among wealthy and powerful figures.

As more documents are reviewed, public attention on Epstein’s network is expected to continue.

Canadian Armed Forces Member Dies During NATO Deployment in Latvia

News

Olivia Willson

January 31, 2026

Canadian Armed Forces Member Dies During NATO Deployment in Latvia

Canadian Armed Forces Member Dies in Latvia

Ottawa: A Canadian Armed Forces service member has died while deployed in Latvia.
The Department of National Defence confirmed the death on January 30, 2026.

The soldier died on January 29 near Riga.
He was serving under Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s NATO mission in Eastern Europe.

The military identified the member as Gunner Sebastian Halmagean.
He served with the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support), Royal Canadian Artillery.

His unit operates under the 6 Canadian Combat Support Brigade.
The brigade is based in Oromocto, New Brunswick.

Service and Deployment Details

Gunner Halmagean had served in the Canadian Armed Forces for nearly three years.
Latvia marked his first overseas deployment.

He was part of the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia.
The mission strengthens NATO’s eastern flank and deters regional threats.

Canadian troops work alongside allied forces from multiple countries.
They focus on defence readiness and regional stability.

Circumstances of Death Under Investigation

Officials have not released details about the cause of death.
The military said it is too early to provide further information.

The Canadian Forces Military Police are investigating the incident.
Latvian Military Police are assisting with the inquiry.

The Department of National Defence said it will release updates when appropriate.
It emphasized respect for the family’s privacy during this period.

Tributes From Military and Political Leaders

Chief of the Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan expressed deep condolences.
She said the loss is felt across the entire Canadian Armed Forces.

Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin also paid tribute.
He highlighted Halmagean’s dedication and professionalism.

Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a public statement.
He said Canada is stronger because of the soldier’s service.

Family members shared that Halmagean was proud to wear the uniform.
They recalled his commitment to service and helping others.

Canada’s Role in Latvia

Canada leads one of NATO’s multinational battle groups in Latvia.
Around 2,000 Canadian troops rotate through the deployment each year.

In 2025, the federal government extended Operation REASSURANCE until 2029.
The mission remains central to Canada’s NATO commitments.

The Canadian Armed Forces lowered flags to half-mast.
Support services are being offered to personnel affected by the loss.

Trump Threatens Bombardier with 50% Tariffs and Decertification

Olivia Willson

January 30, 2026

Trump Threatens Bombardier with 50% Tariffs and Decertification

Canada-U.S. Aviation Tensions Escalate over Bombardier Jets

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Canada by threatening steep tariffs and regulatory retaliation against Canadian-made aircraft. This move comes amid ongoing disputes over aircraft certification and trade issues between the two countries.

Trump said the United States will decertify Canadian aircraft and impose a 50 per cent tariff on all Canadian planes sold in the U.S. if Canada does not approve U.S.-made Gulfstream jets. The president’s comments are part of a broader effort to pressure Canada into changing its certification process for American aircraft.

He accused Canada of acting “wrongfully, illegally, and steadfastly” in refusing to certify U.S. jets. The strong language highlights the seriousness of the situation and signals potential economic consequences if the dispute is not resolved quickly.

Bombardier in the Crosshairs

Trump singled out Bombardier’s Global Express jets as part of the threat. The U.S. will decertify these Canadian-built planes until the U.S. jets receive certification in Canada.

Bombardier is a key Canadian aerospace manufacturer. Its aircraft are widely used in the U.S., including by regional carriers, private operators, and business jet customers. The company plays a significant role in Canada’s aviation sector, and any disruption could have far-reaching consequences for its operations and workforce.

Markets and Industry Reaction

Bombardier’s stock dropped nearly 9 per cent after the threat was announced. Investors and analysts immediately expressed concern about the potential impact on both Canadian and U.S. aerospace markets.

Experts warned that the threat could disrupt airlines and aerospace jobs on both sides of the border. Trump’s move is linked to competition with Gulfstream, a U.S.-based business jet manufacturer producing competing models. Industry professionals also cautioned that using aircraft certification as a trade weapon could undermine global aviation safety standards.

Canadian Response and Next Steps

Canada has not yet issued a detailed response, but officials are actively discussing the issue with U.S. counterparts. Transport Canada normally handles certification independently, and experts emphasize that the process should remain free from political influence.

The dispute highlights wider trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. It also puts a spotlight on one of Canada’s key export sectors, emphasizing the importance of protecting national industries while maintaining international trade relationships.

Carney Sends Clear Message to Washington on Canadian Sovereignty

Olivia Willson

January 30, 2026

Carney Sends Clear Message to Washington on Canadian Sovereignty

Carney Says U.S. Must Respect Canadian Sovereignty After Alberta Separatists Meet Trump Team

Reports of Cross-Border Political Outreach Raise Concerns

Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada expects the United States to respect its sovereignty.
His comments came after reports that Alberta separatist representatives met with members of Donald Trump’s political team.

According to multiple reports, the group discussed Alberta’s grievances with Ottawa.
They also reportedly sought international attention for Alberta’s independence movement.

The meetings took place in the United States and involved figures aligned with Trump’s circle.
The outreach triggered concern among Canadian political leaders.

Carney Draws a Firm Line on Sovereignty

Carney addressed the issue during a joint news conference with provincial premiers.
He said Canada manages its political debates internally.

He stressed that foreign governments should not engage with separatist movements.
Such actions, he said, undermine democratic norms and national unity.

Carney avoided direct accusations against the U.S. government.
However, he said expectations around sovereignty must remain clear.

Alberta Separatism and Trump Alignment

The Alberta separatist group has publicly praised Donald Trump in recent months.
Members have echoed Trump-style rhetoric on federal authority and energy policy.

The group argues Ottawa has unfairly targeted Alberta’s oil and gas sector.
They claim independence would restore economic control to the province.

Their outreach to Trump allies appears aimed at gaining legitimacy.
It also seeks to internationalize a domestic political issue.

Premiers Emphasize Unity and Stability

Several premiers voiced concern about the meetings.
They said internal disagreements should not invite foreign involvement.

Carney said Canada’s strength comes from federal cooperation.
He warned that division weakens Canada’s global position.

The premiers agreed to keep future discussions focused on shared priorities.
These include trade, affordability, and economic growth.

Canada-U.S. Relationship Remains Important

Carney said Canada values its relationship with the United States.
He described it as essential to both economies and security.

At the same time, he said respect must guide all engagement.
Sovereignty, he added, forms the foundation of any partnership.

Carney concluded by reaffirming Canada’s unity.
He said Canada will speak with one voice on the world stage.

FBI searches Georgia election site tied to 2020 vote dispute

Global

Willy

January 28, 2026

FBI searches Georgia election site tied to 2020 vote dispute

WASHINGTON — The FBI carried out a court-authorized search at a Georgia election operations facility on Wednesday, reopening scrutiny around former U.S. president Donald Trump’s long-standing claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election — allegations that have repeatedly been rejected by courts and election officials.

Federal agents executed a warrant at the Fulton County Election Hub and Operations Center in Union City, a large facility opened in 2023 to support election administration in the Atlanta area. The FBI confirmed the search but offered limited details, describing it only as a lawful enforcement action.

Fulton County officials said the warrant sought records connected to the 2020 presidential election. A law-enforcement source familiar with the matter said investigators were looking for computers and ballots believed to be stored at the site as part of a broader probe into alleged election interference.

Renewed focus after Trump remarks

The search came days after Trump again raised claims of election rigging during public remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he suggested prosecutions were forthcoming over the 2020 vote.

Joe Biden narrowly carried Georgia in that election, helping secure his victory over Trump. Multiple recounts, audits, and legal reviews later confirmed the outcome.

Trump, who returned to the White House after winning the 2024 election, has continued to assert that the earlier contest was illegitimate — a claim rejected by state officials from both parties.

Legal fight over ballots

The FBI action follows a separate legal effort by the Trump administration to obtain Fulton County’s 2020 ballots. Last month, the administration filed a lawsuit seeking access to physical ballots and related election materials, arguing they are necessary for federal review.

Fulton County’s court clerk has asked a judge to dismiss the case, stating that the ballots remain sealed under Georgia law and cannot be released without a court order. The clerk also argued that the administration directed its request to the wrong authority.

It remains unclear where all physical ballots from the 2020 election are currently stored.

Long-running Georgia dispute

Trump’s attempts to overturn Georgia’s election results have been among the most closely examined episodes of the post-2020 period. He previously pressured state officials to “find” votes and later faced criminal charges in Fulton County related to alleged election interference.

That prosecution was dismissed last year following controversy involving the district attorney’s conduct in the case.

Since returning to office, Trump’s Justice Department has launched or revived multiple investigations involving states, election officials, and political opponents. Several states have challenged federal demands for voter data, arguing that election administration is a constitutional state responsibility. Courts have dismissed some of those cases.

Broader implications

Legal scholars say the Georgia search underscores continuing tension between federal authority and state-run election systems — a fault line likely to sharpen as the U.S. heads toward future national elections.

Fulton County, which includes Atlanta, remains a Democratic stronghold and was a focal point of Trump’s efforts to contest the 2020 outcome.

Neither the FBI nor the Justice Department has indicated whether further searches or charges are expected.

Bessent warns Canada ahead of CUSMA renegotiation talks

Politics

Willy

January 28, 2026

Bessent warns Canada ahead of CUSMA renegotiation talks

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has turned up the heat on Canada ahead of high-stakes North American trade talks, with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly cautioning Prime Minister Mark Carney against what he called “virtue signalling” as negotiations over the future of CUSMA draw closer.

Speaking Wednesday in Washington at an event unveiling the Trump administration’s new “Trump Accounts” investment program for children, Bessent used a television interview to send a pointed message to Ottawa. Asked about tensions following Carney’s recent speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Bessent said Canada should tread carefully.

“I would encourage Prime Minister Carney to focus on what’s best for Canadians — not scoring political points,” Bessent said in an interview with CNBC. “You don’t pick a fight going into a USMCA negotiation.”

The comments underline growing strain in Canada–U.S. relations as the Canada–U.S.–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) comes up for mandatory review later this year. The three countries must decide by July 1 whether to extend the pact, reopen negotiations, or allow it to lapse.

Trade pressure resurfaces

Bessent’s remarks come after months of escalating rhetoric from the Trump White House, which imposed tariffs on several Canadian exports in 2025 and has repeatedly floated the idea of rewriting — or even abandoning — the trade deal.

Canada remains the United States’ largest trading partner, but Bessent made clear that size matters at the negotiating table.

“When you’re negotiating with an economy that’s many times larger than yours, posture matters,” he said, adding that Carney’s rise to office on what he described as an “anti-Trump message” could complicate talks.

A personal swipe at Carney

Bessent also questioned Carney’s shift from central banking to elected politics, noting the prime minister previously served as governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England.

“In my investment career, I’ve seen technocrats try to become politicians,” Bessent said. “It doesn’t usually end well.”

The comments follow claims from Trump officials that Carney softened his Davos remarks during a private phone call with the president earlier this week — an assertion Carney has firmly rejected.

“I meant what I said,” Carney told reporters on Parliament Hill Tuesday. “I was clear then, and I was clear with the president.”

Davos fallout continues

At Davos, Carney warned that global powers were increasingly weaponizing trade, using tariffs and economic integration as leverage — remarks that drew swift backlash from U.S. officials.

Trump later withdrew Carney’s invitation to join a newly announced advisory group dubbed the “Board of Peace,” while Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick dismissed the Davos speech as “political noise.”

On Saturday, Trump escalated further, threatening a sweeping 100-per-cent tariff on Canadian goods should Ottawa strike a trade deal with China.

Carney has downplayed the criticism, saying the reaction should be viewed through the lens of upcoming trade negotiations rather than personal animosity.

Talks moving ahead — without Canada, for now

While formal Canada–U.S. discussions have yet to begin, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met Wednesday with Mexican officials to outline potential changes to the agreement, including tougher rules of origin, closer coordination on critical minerals, and tighter alignment on external trade policy.

For Canada, the message from Washington is becoming increasingly clear: tone, timing, and diplomacy may matter as much as policy substance in the months ahead.

World Cup Trophy Heads to Canada Ahead of Summer Soccer

Henry

January 28, 2026

World Cup Trophy Heads to Canada Ahead of Summer Soccer

Catch the FIFA World Cup Trophy in Canada this April-May. Stops include Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and more—free tickets available.

The World Cup Trophy is Coming to Canada

Soccer fans, get ready! The iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy is hitting Canadian soil this spring, giving fans a rare chance to see the coveted prize up close before the summer tournament kicks off.

The 75-stop FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, which began January 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will visit seven Canadian cities from April 9 to May 26. Stops include Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Montreal, Halifax, Ottawa, and Toronto.

This tour is a prelude to the 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, running from June 11 to July 19.

A Trophy With a Storied Past

The current World Cup Trophy has a fascinating history. First awarded in 1974, it replaced the Jules Rimet Trophy, which was permanently awarded to Brazil after their third World Cup win in 1970.

Italian sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga designed the new trophy, selected from 53 entries. Crafted from 18-karat solid gold, it stands 14.5 inches tall, weighs 13.6 pounds, and rests on a base featuring two bands of green malachite. The trophy has been restored multiple times, including a fresh layer of gold plating after its last major restoration in 2006.

While past winners could briefly keep the trophy, FIFA now only presents it during the official ceremony. The victorious country receives an exact replica to keep forever. The base of the trophy proudly displays the names of all World Cup champions since 1974.

Meet the Trophy in Person

Fans eager to see the trophy can register for free tickets starting Thursday at 10 a.m. ET through Coca-Cola, the official sponsor of the tour, at www.coca-cola.com/ca/en.

Tour Dates in Canada:

April 9–11: Vancouver
April 12: Calgary
April 13: Winnipeg
May 22: Montreal
May 23: Halifax
May 24: Ottawa
May 25–26: Toronto

This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for Canadians to get up close to one of sports’ most famous trophies, so make sure you don’t miss out.

DowntownMagazine PRO

Over 400 RCMP Members Faced Misconduct Allegations in 2024

Types of Misconduct Allegations

Disciplinary Actions Increased

Accountability and Oversight Measures

Harper, Chrétien Call for National Unity in Ottawa

Harper Rejects Alberta Separation Talk

Concerns Around Regional Separatism

Global Pressures and National Identity

A Shared Message to Canadians

Thousands Rally in Downtown Toronto to Support Iranian Protesters

Calls for Change and Accountability

Background of the Iranian Protests

Canadian Response and Global Solidarity

A Message Beyond Borders

New Epstein Files Renew Scrutiny of Powerful US Figures

Emails Raise Questions About Elite Connections

Howard Lutnick Also Named in Records

Transparency Law Drives Disclosure

Public Reaction and Ongoing Debate

Canadian Armed Forces Member Dies in Latvia

Service and Deployment Details

Circumstances of Death Under Investigation

Tributes From Military and Political Leaders

Canada’s Role in Latvia

Canada-U.S. Aviation Tensions Escalate over Bombardier Jets

Bombardier in the Crosshairs

Markets and Industry Reaction

Canadian Response and Next Steps

Carney Says U.S. Must Respect Canadian Sovereignty After Alberta Separatists Meet Trump Team

Reports of Cross-Border Political Outreach Raise Concerns

Carney Draws a Firm Line on Sovereignty

Alberta Separatism and Trump Alignment

Premiers Emphasize Unity and Stability

Canada-U.S. Relationship Remains Important

Renewed focus after Trump remarks

Legal fight over ballots

Long-running Georgia dispute

Broader implications

Trade pressure resurfaces

A personal swipe at Carney

Davos fallout continues

Talks moving ahead — without Canada, for now

The World Cup Trophy is Coming to Canada

A Trophy With a Storied Past

Meet the Trophy in Person

Maple News Wire

Latest

Popular