FIFA World Cup 2026: Toronto Gears Up for a Landmark Event
Toronto will host six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches, marking a significant milestone as Canada prepares for its first men’s World Cup. As one of 16 host cities across North America, Toronto is making extensive preparations to welcome fans, players, and teams from around the globe.
Official Match Schedule in Toronto
Toronto’s BMO Field will host the following matches during the tournament:
- June 12, 2026: Canada’s Men’s National Team kicks off its opening match on home soil.
- June 17, 2026: Group Stage match.
- June 20, 2026: Group Stage match.
- June 23, 2026: Group Stage match.
- June 26, 2026: Group Stage match.
- July 2, 2026: Round of 32 knockout match.
The final tournament draw, scheduled for late 2025, will determine match pairings and kick-off times.
What Hosting the World Cup Means for Toronto
The tournament is expected to generate significant economic and cultural benefits for Toronto, including:
- $300 million in hosting costs, supported by federal, provincial, and municipal funding.
- An estimated 174,000 overnight visitors and 292,000 hotel room bookings, contributing $3.5 million in municipal accommodation taxes.
- Thousands of jobs created in tourism, event management, and hospitality.
The city will also see upgrades to BMO Field, including the addition of 17,750 seats, bringing its capacity to 45,735. Enhanced facilities, including video boards and suites, will ensure the venue meets FIFA standards.
Toronto’s Role on the Global Stage
Toronto’s hosting role showcases its status as a multicultural hub. With a theme of “The World in a City,” the event will highlight the city’s diversity and passion for soccer. The games will unite local communities and provide an opportunity to celebrate soccer’s global appeal.
Canada, as one of the host nations, automatically qualifies for the tournament. Toronto will serve as a base for Canada’s group stage matches, with additional fixtures played in Vancouver.
Economic and Social Legacy
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will leave a lasting impact on Toronto’s sports infrastructure and community programs. Organizers anticipate a surge in local participation in soccer, driven by:
- Role models from competing teams.
- Improved training facilities and coaching programs.
- Enhanced soccer infrastructure, encouraging youth engagement and fostering talent development.
Ticket Information and Preparation
Fans can pre-register for tickets and hospitality packages at FIFA.com/tickets. Single-match tickets will go on sale after the final draw in late 2025.
With just over 500 days until the tournament begins, Toronto’s FIFA office has expanded operations. More than 80 staff members are coordinating key aspects like venue management, security, and logistics. The city is collaborating with FIFA offices in Miami, Mexico City, and Zurich to ensure seamless event delivery.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ offers Toronto a unique opportunity to showcase its global appeal while reaping economic and social benefits. As preparations accelerate, the city is set to become a key stage for soccer’s most celebrated tournament. Fans worldwide eagerly anticipate this historic event, with Toronto at the heart of the action.
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