The San Jose Sharks issued an apology on October 19, 2025, after a message displayed on the scoreboard during a game at SAP Center drew criticism for praising the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This incident occurred during the first period of a match against the Pittsburgh Penguins, coinciding with the team’s annual event celebrating Hispanic heritage.
The scoreboard message read, “SJ SHARKS FANS LOVE ICE !! GET ‘EM BOYZ !” which sparked immediate backlash from fans and community members. Following the first intermission, the Sharks released a statement on social media platform X, acknowledging the error and expressing regret for the offensively worded message that had been externally submitted.
In their statement, the Sharks organization emphasized, “Sharks Sports & Entertainment deeply regrets that this message, which does not meet our organization’s values, was not detected during our standard review process.” They further stated, “The Sharks organization sincerely apologizes for this oversight, and we are actively working to determine the origin of the message.”
Celebrating Heritage Amid Controversy
The incident unfolded during the Sharks’ ninth annual “Los Tiburones Night,” an event designed to honor the Bay Area’s vibrant Hispanic community. The team’s commitment to this celebration contrasts sharply with the confusion generated by the scoreboard message.
Fans and advocates have expressed their disappointment, highlighting the importance of sensitivity and awareness during events meant to celebrate inclusivity and diversity. The Sharks, while facing a public relations challenge, are keen to reaffirm their dedication to the community they serve.
Despite the controversy, the Sharks went on to lose the game 3-0 against the Penguins, marking a challenging evening both on and off the ice. This incident follows a broader context in which discussions about ICE and immigration policies have sparked significant protests across California and other states, particularly in light of actions taken by political leaders earlier in the year.
As the Sharks work to address the situation, they are likely to implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The organization remains committed to fostering a respectful environment for all fans and honoring the cultural significance of events like “Los Tiburones Night.”
