NUUK, Greenland — For most of the year, Greenland is cloaked in layers of ice and snow, leading its residents to seek refuge indoors. However, come June, the scene changes dramatically for a brief three months when locals step out into the perpetual daylight to engage in their beloved sport, soccer.
On this vast island, home to around 56,000 individuals, nearly 5,500 are registered soccer players, making soccer a cornerstone of Greenlandic culture. Thus, it was a significant letdown when the Greenlandic Football Association’s plea to join the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) was dismissed unanimously in early June.
Some speculate the decision was influenced by political dynamics, particularly in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s expressed interest in acquiring the strategically significant and mineral-laden territory. CONCACAF is one of the six federations under FIFA, the global soccer governing body.
Despite Denmark, a NATO member, and Greenland firmly asserting that the island is not for sale, and denouncing increased U.S. intelligence activities there, Trump has not ruled out military options. Nevertheless, national team captain Patrick Frederiksen believes the rejection boils down to economic issues.
“We know it’s quite costly to travel to Greenland,” Frederiksen stated.
In recent developments, Nuuk hosted the first direct flight from the U.S. by an American airline, with ticket prices running approximately $1,200 for a one-way journey from Newark International Airport. Round-trip flights back from Nuuk come with a $1,300 to $1,500 expense, and alternatives require a stopover in either Iceland or Copenhagen, Denmark.
CONCACAF has not released a statement on the matter.
While Greenland could theoretically aim for European federation membership, UEFA’s recognition criteria demand sovereignty, a criterion Greenland does not meet. Yet, CONCACAF’s membership rules display no such limitations.
Amid international headlines, Greenland’s residents are more focused on reaching the soccer fields this summer, eager to play under continuous daylight, even when temperatures hover between 5 to 10 degrees Celsius (41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit) in Nuuk.
“We gather outside and play football throughout the night,” shares Angutimmarik Kreutzmann, a player. “The endless daylight gives us a sense of freedom.”
Soccer, energizing the entire island, encompasses local youth clubs to the national team. Outdoor fields with magnificent views, including icebergs and snowy mountain crests, serve as venues ranging from artificial turf to dirt to natural grass, although previous generations recall playing on gravel.
Oscar Scott Carl, coach of Nuuk’s B-67 club, suggests, “You should come witness a game. The energy and support are something else, highlighting soccer’s role in fostering unity across the island.”
The Kalaallit Arsaattartut Kattuffiat, Greenland’s football association, established in 1971, oversees many men’s and women’s teams. Community initiatives also play a crucial role, with players often seen as inspirations by the younger generation.
“Kids frequently approach us for autographs or photographs,” Frederiksen explained. “We receive immense encouragement from them.”
During harsh winter months, many players transition to futsal, an indoor soccer variant played with a unique ball on handball courts, with five players per team.
The national team even journeyed to Brazil for the Intercontinental Futsal Cup this past March.
While the Faeroe Islands, another Danish territory, successfully obtained FIFA and UEFA membership, Greenland’s path to international competitions remains obstructed by infrastructure limitations. An official stadium would require nearly 70% of the island’s population to fill a minimum seating capacity — an improbable scenario.
Yet, Jimmy Holm Jensen of Nuuk’s B-67 club remains hopeful for international participation, declaring, “Greenland has much to offer to the world.”