Arsenal football fans in Botswana thought they had another reason to celebrate after the club won its first Premier League title in 22 years: a public holiday.
However, the Botswana government said a report announcing Arsenal fans could take Wednesday off to celebrate the title was fake.
The government posted the so-called official statement at X with the word “FAKE” stamped across it in red. It also said: “No, there is no holiday for Arsenal fans.”
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The false statement circulating online, complete with the coat of arms of the Republic of Botswana and a stamp from the president’s office, claims that President Duma Boko has rewarded Arsenal fans for their «passion, loyalty and unwavering support».
However, fans may have noticed an obvious mistake. The false statement was dated May 17, a Sunday, while Arsenal’s title was only confirmed on Tuesday after nearest rivals Manchester City drew 1-1 with Bournemouth.
One X user jokingly suggested that the false statement may have come from a Manchester United fan.
Published on May 20, 2026
