Arsenal supporters in Botswana were briefly sent into a frenzy by news of a public holiday, supposedly declared to celebrate their team's first Premier League title in 22 years.
However, their joy was short-lived as the Botswana government swiftly debunked the announcement, labelling it "fake news".
The government took to X, formerly Twitter, to post the circulating notice with the word "FAKE" emblazoned in red across it, adding a clear message: "No, there is no holiday for Arsenal fans."
The fabricated statement, which bore the Republic of Botswana's coat of arms and a stamp from the office of the president, claimed that President Duma Boko had rewarded Arsenal fans for their "passion, loyalty and unwavering support."
𝗡𝗢, 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗜𝗦 𝗡𝗢 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗥𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗙𝗔𝗡𝗦. pic.twitter.com/xuc9JA8oPd
Eagle-eyed fans, however, might have noticed that the fake statement was dated May 17: Sunday. Arsenal's triumph was only confirmed on Tuesday after nearest rival Manchester City drew 1-1 with Bournemouth.
One X user speculated jokingly that the fake statement was issued by a Manchester United fan.
The Gunners were crowned champions of the Premier League with a game to spare after Manchester City's unexpected 1-1 draw against Bournemouth left them four points adrift with only one fixture remaining.
City found themselves under pressure for much of the second half following Eli Kroupi Junior's superb 39th-minute opener.
Despite Erling Haaland's stoppage-time equaliser, the late goal proved insufficient for Pep Guardiola, who is widely anticipated to depart the club at the close of the current season.
Mikel Arteta’s side will now travel across London to Crystal Palace on the final day of the 2025/26 season as champions, having clinched the club’s 14th title, the third-most in English football history, but a first since their 2004 “Invincibles”.
Declan Rice celebrated Arsenal’s Premier League title triumph with an Instagram post calling back to his now famous line at the end of the Gunners’ April defeat by Manchester City.
Rice was pictured saying “it’s not over” to his captain Martin Odegaard at full-time in the 2-1 defeat which swung title-race momentum in favour of reigning champions City.
He posted: “I told you all… it’s done.”
Arsenal players had gathered at their London Colney training base to watch the Bournemouth game, and the full-time whistle at the Vitality Stadium brought wild celebrations from players and staff.
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