Iceland’s New President: One Helluva Football Fan

Icelanders, like many around the world, celebrated the country’s 2-1 victory over England—and the new President of Iceland was no exception.

While Guðni Th. Jóhannesson was elected Iceland’s sixth President only last Saturday, this didn’t stop him and his wife, writer Eliza Reid, from attending Iceland’s game against England last Monday.

In a forthcoming interview with the Grapevine, Guðni described the mood of the game.

“It was unbelievable,” he said. “I am a sports fan, so it’s nothing new to me to go to a game and cheer on the national team, wearing the team jersey and all that.”

Moreover, Guðni told us it was important for him to be a part of the crowd.

“I was actually given the option of second tier of VIP personnel – behind the glass, presumably being able to sip champagne or something,” he told us. “But I much preferred being in the thick of it. I realise that once I’m elected President, my room to maneuver changes a bit, but since I haven’t officially assumed office yet, I was thrilled to be able to cheer on the team with my fellow Icelanders, hug people I’ve never met before, cheer and cry tears of joy, and all the other things you do when you witness a spectacular event such as this.”

Iceland’s next match will be against France, to be held this Sunday. Keep your eye out for our new issue, out Friday, for the full piece

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