LOS ANGELES — While some world leaders shy away from the global spotlight of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is embracing the role of his country's number one fan and morale booster, making headlines and even earning a playful moniker along the way.

President Donald Trump has notably kept a distance from the event, despite having been a focal point in the months prior, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum made headlines by giving away her tickets in a move seen as a critique of FIFA's politics. In contrast, Prime Minister Carney has not only been a fixture at Canada's matches but also a vocal supporter, attending two of the group-stage games and even delivering a spirited locker-room pep talk following Canada's victory over Qatar—an act that garnered significant attention on social media.

However, Carney's enthusiastic involvement has not been without its superstitions. The so-called "Carney Curse" emerged after he momentarily left his seat during the match against Switzerland, coinciding with the opposition scoring a crucial goal, leading some fans to whimsically blame the loss on his brief absence.

Aside from his visible presence at the games, Carney has also been leveraging the international event to foster diplomatic relations. His office released a statement detailing a conversation with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa ahead of the knockout game against South Africa, discussing "growing cooperation in agriculture and agrifood." This move highlights how sports can serve as a bridge for more serious political and economic engagements.

As Canada prepares for its crucial knockout match against South Africa, all eyes are not just on the team but also on their high-profile supporter. Carney's next steps and his presence at the game remain a topic of interest and speculation. Will the leader’s continued support lead Canada to victory, or will the mythical "Carney Curse" strike again? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Mark Carney is living up to his new title as the king of the cup, at least in the hearts of Canadian soccer fans.