Bills to play Canadian anthem at new $2.2 billion stadium

The Buffalo Bills announced that the Canadian national anthem will be performed before their Week 2 home opener against the Detroit Lions on Sept. 17 at the new Highmark Stadium. The anthem will be sung by the Barenaked Ladies, while actress Auliʻi Cravalho will sing the U.S. "Star-Spangled Banner."

The move follows a tradition among Buffalo sports teams, including the NHL’s Sabres, the Bisons and the NLL’s Bandits, of playing both anthems before games.

Fans who attended a recent training-camp practice at the $2.2 billion venue reported obstructed views caused by railings, booths and video boards that blocked parts of the field, prompting criticism on social media.

"We asked if there was going to be an obstruction multiple times because it was a concern," season ticket holder Melissa Wroblewski said, adding that the team had assured her the design would be clear of obstructions.

Ticket prices have also drawn scrutiny, with some season-ticket holders noting that premium seats now cost significantly more than in the previous stadium.

The organization responded that it will "refine any details" before the opener and will replace the grass on the field ahead of the first three home games.

"We’re committed to having the best possible playing surface for our players," Pete Guelli, president of business operations, said in a statement.