CRA Employee’s World Cup Antenna Story Shows How Far Fans Will Go

World Cup excitement can reach almost anywhere — even inside an office boardroom.

A Canada Revenue Agency employee once found himself in trouble after bringing a TV antenna to work during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The employee, a longtime CRA rulings officer, connected the antenna to a boardroom television on the day England played Croatia in the World Cup semifinal.

The setup was not connected to official work duties. According to details from a labour decision, the employee had brought the antenna so the match could be shown in the workplace. He was later suspended for three days after being accused of watching the game during work hours.

However, the suspension was eventually dropped after the employee challenged the decision. He argued that he had only watched briefly to check whether the television was working and that work records showed he had been completing duties during part of the time in question.

The case became a memorable example of how powerful World Cup fever can be. For many fans, major tournament matches are emotional moments that they do not want to miss — especially when their favourite country is playing in a semifinal.

At the same time, the story also shows the importance of workplace rules. The CRA argued that employees should not attach personal items to workplace equipment without permission, even during a major sporting event.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 brings matches to Canada, the story feels especially relevant again. Many workplaces are now finding more organized ways to enjoy the tournament, such as approved watch parties, lunchroom screenings, or flexible viewing arrangements.

The lesson is simple: World Cup passion is real, but it is always better to ask before turning the boardroom into a fan zone.