Three Fan Bases Westcoast German News Supports

As the FIFA World Cup brings nations together, Westcoast German News has been making the rounds to support three official fan bases in Metro Vancouver, while also cheering on Team Canada. Four matches, four different atmospheres, but one common passion: football.

Hopp Schwiizz! Steamworks Hosts Swiss Fans

The World Cup adventure began on June 13 at the official Swiss Fan Base, the Steamworks Brewpub in Gastown. There, I joined the Swiss Consul General, members of the Swiss Society, the Swiss Choir and the Swiss Canadian Chamber to watch Switzerland and Qatar battle to a 1-1 draw.

With cowbells and cries of “Hopp Schwiizz!” encouraged, the opening match attracted around 30 to 40 supporters. By the second Swiss game, a convincing 4-1 victory, the atmosphere had become considerably louder and more enthusiastic.

On Wednesday, June 24, I will attend a Lufthansa watch party at the Vancouver Club as Switzerland takes on Team Canada.

Germany’s Seven-Goal Celebration

On June 14, my niece, a World Cup newbie, joined me at the Official Jägermeister German House at Dublin Calling on Granville Street to watch Germany defeat Curaçao 7-1.

Dublin Calling has long been home to passionate sports fans and regularly welcomes Vancouver Whitecaps supporter groups. Televisions cover nearly every wall, and the place was packed. One particularly nice feature is the outdoor patio, where supporters can watch together without registration or tickets. It is simply first come, first served.

The atmosphere was festive, and seeing seven German goals made for an unforgettable evening.

Immer Wieder Österreich!

The Austrian fan base gathered at Rogue Kitchen & Wetbar at Waterfront Station on Tuesday evening, June 16. Although attendance was smaller, the location is probably the most convenient of all.

I enjoyed excellent service while watching Austria face Jordan. Forward Ali Olwan made history by scoring Jordan’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal, but Austria ultimately prevailed 3-1.

A little trivia for geography lovers: Jordan is the only country in Group J that does not begin with the letter A.

Monday morning at 10 a.m., I will return to Rogue Kitchen & Wetbar to cheer on Austria against Argentina with cries of “Immer Wieder Österreich!” My prediction? Austria 3, Argentina 1.

Canada House in North Vancouver

No World Cup experience in Canada would be complete without supporting the home team.

On Thursday, June 18, Westcoast German News attended the Canada House watch party at The Shipyards in North Vancouver, where Canadian supporters celebrated a dominant 6-0 victory over Qatar.

Canadian fans have recently received encouraging news regarding Jonathan David and disappointing news concerning Ismaël Koné, whose injury has been a setback for the squad.

Technology and Football

Next on the schedule is Germany’s match against Ecuador, which I will watch during a BC Business House event focused on technology and innovation.

Are you attending watch parties with a particular country?

Westcoast German News would love to hear from readers supporting Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Canada—or any other nation.

And if you know any Austrians in Metro Vancouver looking for fellow supporters, please send them my way. The Austrian fan section could certainly use a few more voices.

After all, the World Cup is about much more than the final score. It is about friendship, community, and celebrating the beautiful game together.

Four games. Three fan bases. One passion. ⚽🇨🇭🇩🇪🇦🇹🇨🇦