Feb 15 • 08:24 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

US-Denmark 'Greenland Derby' Hockey Match… Greenland Flag Appears in the Audience

During the men's ice hockey match dubbed the 'Greenland Derby' between the USA and Denmark, a Greenland flag was spotted in the audience, drawing attention amidst rising tensions over Greenland's political status.

The men's ice hockey match known as the 'Greenland Derby' took place on February 14 in Milan, Italy, featuring teams from the United States and Denmark. This match was part of the group stage of the Winter Olympics and was particularly notable as the US team, backed by NHL stars, secured a 6-3 victory over Denmark. Despite the lack of physical confrontations between fans, the presence of a Greenland flag in the stands stirred curiosity and discussions about Greenland's status amidst its ongoing political tensions with the US.

The backdrop to this sporting event was the heightened tension following former President Donald Trump's stated interest in purchasing Greenland, a territory that is an autonomous region of Denmark. This context amplified the significance of the game, leading to fans expressing their support for Greenland and opposition to the US's claims. A fan from Germany, who waved the Greenland flag, expressed solidarity with Greenland and criticized aggressive annexation sentiments from the US, highlighting the intersection of sports, politics, and national identity.

Additionally, the presence of Greenlandic athletes at the Olympics, who are competing under Denmark's flag due to IOC regulations, was a focal point in the games. These athletes sported uniforms featuring symbols representing Greenland, facilitating a unique representation of their identity on an international platform, despite the political complexities surrounding their participation. This event illustrates the powerful mix of sport and political narratives, showcasing how international competitions can act as a stage for broader socio-political issues.

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