Canada's most popular sports: Which are the most famous sports in Canada?
Canada has diverse climate seasons hence the wide range of games that can be played. They participate in both winter and summer games, which are lucrative due to the incredible support from the fans. Ice Hockey is one of Canada's most popular sports. Which other sports are popular in Canada? Let's find out.
Canada has some of the most talented athletes winning medals and trophies in different leagues and games. Their recent achievement is their FIFA 2022 World Cup appearance, where they were kicked out in the group stages. Here are some of the most popular sports in Canada, alongside football and ice hockey.
What are the most popular sports in Canada?
The country has different climates enabling it to accommodate all kinds of sports. Their vast population also contributes to the pool of talented athletes ready to represent their country. Here are the most popular sports played in Canada:
10. Curling
The sport might be less famous in other countries compared to Canada. Established in Scotland, the game has gained popularity and is sometimes referred to as chess on ice due to its mentally intense nature. It mainly involves sliding huge stones to a targeted area that looks like a bull's eye. The sport is organised by Curling Canada, which prepares curling championships. It is mainly played in the Prairie Provinces, Manitoba and Alberta.
9. Basketball
Despite the sport's inventor being from the country, it has yet to be a top sport. They boast a massive pool of incredible basketball players participating in competitions such as the NBA, FIBA Basketball World Cup and the summer Olympics. Their team, Toronto Raptors, won the 2019 NBA Championship after beating the Golden State Warriors.
8. Rugby
The Rugby Union has made strides in making the sport more popular in Canada. Both young and senior players have shown interest and participate in the leagues and tournaments such as the Canadian Rugby Championship, Americas Rugby Championship, among others.
7. Tennis
It is one of the country's most popular games, attracting more than 6 million amateur and professional players. They have provided elite athletes such as Milos Raonic, who peaked as world number three.
6. Football (Soccer)
They have the Canadian Premier League and Major League Soccer which facilitate the sport in the country. It is one of the most popular games in the country, with their country being ranked number 41 in the world, which is incredible. Their national team boasts great footballers such as Alphonso Davies.
As of 2006, more than 2.6 million people played soccer professionally in Canada, with the first match ever happening in 1876, making it one of the greatest sports in Canada.
5. Cricket
The sport has been in the country since 1892, attracting more than 40,000 professional cricket players. They have domestic championships, such as the National T20 Championship and Scotia Shield U-19, which attract even more athletes to grace the sport.
4. Baseball
As a close cousin to cricket, baseball had to be represented. Major League Baseball (MLB) and other championships propel the sport forward. Baseball Canada reported that an estimated 120,000 players were attracted to the sport in 2016.
3. Canadian football
The game is similar to rugby and American football. It has its origins in the 1860s. It has two opposing teams of twelve members. The country's professional league is called the Canadian Football League. The sport is so massive in the country that in 2014, 33% of the population watched the Grey Cup.
2. Lacrosse
The sport is less widespread outside Canada than in North American nations. It has roots in the 17th century, and fills Canadians with thrill and adrenaline. Canada is also one of the most lethal countries to play the sport, especially after enthralling the United States in a fierce match to win the World Lacrosse Championship, which they had missed in 28 years.
1. Ice Hockey
So, what is the most common sport in Canada? Of course, it is ice hockey. It is one of the most watched games in Canada; for example, the 2018 NHL playoffs attracted a massive 68% of the population to watch. The NHL has seven teams. The country's climate and infrastructure allow the sport to grow exponentially.
What sports are the most popular in Canada?
The country has many games that they fancy. Their top popular games include ice hockey, Lacrosse, Canadian football, baseball, cricket, soccer, tennis, rugby, basketball and curling.
What sport is Canada known for?
Ice hockey is Canada's top national sport. This is due to the tradition and infrastructure developed over time, together with the fans' support.
What is the number 1 sport in Canada, and why?
Ice hockey is the number one sport in the country due to the large following and fans it attracts. It is so massive that 68% of the population watched the 2018 NHL playoffs. It is also their national sport.
What is the number 1 sport in the world?
Football is the world's most popular sport. It attracts over 3.5 billion followers worldwide. It has legendary stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe and many others who have amassed millions of followers through the sport. The game's most-watched event is the World Cup which happens every four years.
What is Canada's nickname?
The country has hundreds of nicknames, such as "Land of Maple Syrup", "America's hat", "Victorialand", "Canuc", among others. However, the nickname that stands out the most is the "Great White North".
Ice hockey comes out on the list of Canada's most popular sports. The country also enjoys other game options such as Lacrosse, cricket, soccer, Canadian football and curling.
Source: Legit.ng