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Sidney Crosby takes on a surprising new role next summer in a different sport


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Daniel Lucente
November 12, 2025  (4:16 PM)
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Pittsburgh Penguins' Sidney Crosby smiles as he walks in a suit and looks to the side
Photo credit: Edit from Reddit

Penguins' Sidney Crosby is venturing into a different sport next summer, as he has been named ambassador for Canada Soccer ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Sidney Crosby's legacy as one of Canada's greatest athletes is already secure, with an international resume that includes Olympic gold, a World Championship, a World Cup of Hockey, and the Four Nations Face-Off.
Yet next summer, the Pittsburgh Penguins captain will represent Canada in a completely new way, and in a new sport.

What is changing for Sidney Crosby next summer

He has been announced as an ambassador for Canada Soccer, marking the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held alongside 14 other cities in the USA and Mexico, as well as Toronto and Vancouver, Canada.
"I'm excited to partner with Canada Soccer as they launch their Iconic XI ambassador program ahead of the FIFA World Cup," Crosby said. "It's always an honor to represent Canada on the national stage, and I'm happy to support my fellow Canadian athletes. I'll be cheering for them along the way."

The 38-year-old, a well-known fan of Canadian soccer, went all the way to Texas to show support last year by watching their national team play at Copa America, even celebrating their victory over Venezuela with the team afterwards. Further, he will be involved in bringing the sport to a wider audience.

Why this announcement is special for Sidney Crosby

He was unveiled as one of the first "Iconic XI" members of Canada Soccer, a list that comprises 11 influential personalities in various sectors, including sports, entertainment, music, and media, selected to champion the national team among Canadians.
He is joined by actor Simu Liu and singer Shawn Mendes, both familiar names expected to play a key role in this initiative.
Canada Soccer has also unveiled a World Cup album, which will feature The Tragically Hip, Alessia Cara, Charlotte Cardin, Loud Luxury, Nelly Furtado, and Zeds Dead, celebrating the creativity of this country.
As Canada is all set to open the tournament on June 12 in Toronto and conclude their group stage matches in Vancouver, fans will surely see Crosby prominently featured, this time supporting Canada in a brand new jersey.
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NOVEMBRE 12   |   86 ANSWERS
Sidney Crosby takes on a surprising new role next summer in a different sport

Are you surprised to hear that Sidney Crosby is getting involved in the sport of soccer?

Yes2630.2 %
No6069.8 %
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