Arsenal supporters around the world erupted in celebration after the North London club secured their first Premier League title in 22 years, but fans in Botswana briefly believed they had received an extra reward — a public holiday in honour of the triumph.
A fake government notice circulated widely on social media claimed Botswana President Duma Boko had declared Wednesday a holiday for Arsenal supporters because of their “passion, loyalty and unwavering support.” The fabricated statement even featured the country’s coat of arms and an official-looking stamp.
However, Botswana’s government quickly dismissed the document as fake, posting it online with the word “FAKE” stamped across it in red.
“No, there is no holiday for Arsenal fans,” the government
clarified on X.
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— Botswana Government (@BWGovernment) May 20, 2026
Some social media users jokingly speculated that the forged announcement may have been created by a rival supporter trying to troll Arsenal fans.
While the holiday story turned out to be false, celebrations in London were very real. Arsenal players gathered with supporters outside the Emirates Stadium in the early hours after their closest challengers, Manchester City, were held to a 1-1 draw by Bournemouth, officially confirming Arsenal as champions.
Celebrations In London!
Videos and pictures shared online showed players including Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber celebrating with thousands of fans gathered outside the stadium.
Saka reflected on finally ending Arsenal’s title drought after years of criticism.
“Let me tell you something. Twenty-two years, 22 years. There was laughing, there was joking. They’re not laughing anymore,” the England international said.
Teenage defender Myles Lewis-Skelly also joined the celebrations with a champagne bottle in hand.
“They called us bottlers,” said Lewis-Skelly, who has come through the club’s academy. “And now we’re holding the bottle.”
Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, who guided the club to their last league title in 2004, also congratulated the squad in a video message.
“You did it! Champions go on when others stop. This is your time. Now, go on and enjoy every moment,” Wenger said.
(With inputs from Agencies)
