**Edmonton Oilers Cheerleading Squad Crowned World’s Best by ESPN After Record-Breaking Performance**
**EDMONTON, ALBERTA —** In a landmark moment for professional sports entertainment, the Edmonton Oilers Cheerleading Squad has been officially crowned the world’s best by ESPN. The stunning announcement comes in the wake of a jaw-dropping, record-breaking routine performed at the 2025 Global Spirit Championships held in Las Vegas, Nevada — a performance that captivated millions and elevated the art of cheerleading to unprecedented heights.
The Oilers squad outshone elite cheerleading teams from across the world, including powerhouses from the NFL, NBA, and international professional sports leagues. Their routine, marked by explosive stunts, athletic innovation, and emotionally resonant storytelling, earned perfect scores in execution, creativity, and overall impact — a first in the competition’s history.
### A Routine That Changed the Game
The Oilers Cheerleaders’ performance, titled *“Northern Lights”*, was a dazzling fusion of athleticism and artistry. Inspired by Canada’s natural beauty and the team’s deep-rooted connection to its community, the routine featured high-flying aerial stunts, flawless tumbling passes, and complex formations that pushed the boundaries of cheer choreography.
“This wasn’t just cheerleading — it was a transformative performance,” said ESPN lead judge and spirit competition expert Madison Rayne. “The Edmonton squad brought innovation, heart, and technical brilliance. It was a moment that will be studied and remembered for generations.”
The creative direction was led by Head Coach and former world champion choreographer Jessica Linwood, who described the routine as “a love letter to Edmonton — a testament to resilience, unity, and the limitless power of performance.”
### International Praise and Local Pride
The squad’s victory quickly ignited a wave of international praise. Social media lit up with clips of their performance, drawing reactions from celebrities, pro athletes, and fans alike. Olympic figure skater Tessa Virtue posted on X (formerly Twitter), calling the routine “pure magic,” while actor Ryan Reynolds wrote, “This is what greatness looks like. Bravo, Edmonton.”
In Edmonton, celebrations erupted as the news broke. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi declared it “a win not just for the city, but for the entire country,” announcing that the team would be honored in a city-wide parade scheduled for next week. Rogers Place, home to the Oilers, will also host a special tribute during the next home game.
### What Comes Next
Building on their global success, the squad is slated to headline major international events, including performances at the 2026 Winter Youth Olympics opening ceremony and the World Cheerleading Expo in Tokyo. Additionally, Netflix has confirmed production of a behind-the-scenes docuseries, *“Blades & Brilliance: The Oilers Cheer Story,”* set to premiere in early 2026.
Coach Linwood believes this is just the beginning: “We’ve always believed in our ability to perform at the highest level. To now be recognized as the best in the world — it’s surreal. But we’re not done yet. We’re just getting started.”
As they take their place on the world stage, the Edmonton Oilers Cheerleading Squad stands not just as champions, but as pioneers redefining what it means to cheer, inspire, and lead through performance.
