The Grey Cup arrived in Winnipeg on Friday at James Richardson International Airport. (HANDOUT)
WINNIPEG — Canadian football’s most coveted piece of hardware touched down in Winnipeg on Friday.
The Grey Cup arrived at James Richardson International Airport to fanfare ahead of Saturday’s Western Final at Princess Auto Stadium.
Jeff McWhinney, the Keeper of the Cup, was on hand to personally retrieve the trophy. It was placed in a plexiglass display case branded with the WestJet logo and CFL team insignias.
Jeff McWhinney, the Keeper of the Grey Cup, poses in Winnipeg on Friday, November 8, 2024. (HANDOUT)
As the Calgary-based airline exclusively flies CFL teams across the country, WestJet officials were on hand for the photo-op.
“Winnipeg is thrilled to host the Western Final, and the excitement is palpable with the game completely selling out,” said Mariam Wilton, senior manager, brand strategy & activation at WestJet.
“To celebrate this momentous occasion and our partnership with the CFL, we wanted to create a truly special experience for our guests arriving in Winnipeg for the Final.”
Fans who didn’t make it to the airport will have another chance to get up close to the Grey Cup on Saturday. As part of the Purolator Tackle Hunger food drive, fans can bring a food or monetary donation in exchange for a picture with the hardware prior to kickoff. All donations will go to support Harvest Manitoba.
The Blue Bombers host the Saskatchewan Roughriders, with the winner advancing to the Grey Cup. Game time is 5:30 p.m.
