Arsenal supporters in Botswana briefly believed their Premier League joy had been rewarded with something extraordinary: a national holiday in honour of the club’s long-awaited title triumph.

A statement, styled to look like an official government notice, began circulating widely on social media. It declared that the president had granted a public holiday for Arsenal fans, praising their “passion, loyalty and unwavering support” for the North London club after its first league crown in more than two decades.

The document appeared convincing at first glance. It carried the Republic of Botswana’s coat of arms, formal language and what looked like an authentic stamp from the Office of the President. Screenshots spread rapidly among football communities, with jubilant Arsenal fans sharing the supposed decree as proof that their devotion had been recognised at the highest level.

But the celebration did not last. Botswana’s government moved quickly to debunk the claim, posting the forged notice on X with the word FAKE splashed across it in red. The accompanying message was blunt: “No, there is no holiday for Arsenal fans.”

Closer inspection revealed telltale signs of fabrication. The bogus statement carried a date that did not align with the actual timing of Arsenal’s title confirmation. The club’s coronation was sealed only after nearest challengers Manchester City dropped points against Bournemouth, yet the document was dated earlier, undermining its credibility.

The episode became instant fodder for football banter. On X, one user joked that the hoax must have been the work of a mischievous Manchester United supporter, poking fun at Arsenal’s global fan base and their eagerness to celebrate.

Beyond the humour, the incident highlighted how quickly misinformation can spread when it taps into powerful emotions, in this case the elation of a long-suffering fan base finally seeing its team crowned champions again. It also underscored the need for governments to respond swiftly and visibly when official symbols and formats are hijacked for viral pranks.

For Arsenal fans in Botswana, the reality is clear: there will be no extra day off to mark the title. The celebrations, however, are likely to continue regardless, just without the blessing of a presidential decree.