Toronto Secures $104.34 Million in Federal Funding to Host FIFA World Cup 26™
Toronto, Ontario – Toronto has scored big in securing $104.34 million in federal funding to support its hosting of six games in the FIFA World Cup 26™ (FWC26). The announcement, made at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) at Exhibition Place, signifies a monumental milestone in the city’s journey to showcase its global prominence on the world stage.
Mayor Olivia Chow, alongside Federal Minister of Sport and Physical Activity Carla Qualtrough and Ontario Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Neil Lumsden, unveiled the significant funding commitment. The allocation aims to bolster both operational and capital expenditures necessary for the successful execution of Toronto’s matches and ancillary events during the FIFA World Cup.
Mayor Chow expressed her excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to receive this funding from the Government of Canada. This support will help Toronto host a winning FIFA World Cup in 2026 and showcase our city to the world. The tournament will leave a lasting legacy, providing economic opportunities, cultural enrichment, and a sense of pride in our community.”
Federal Minister Qualtrough echoed Mayor Chow’s sentiments, emphasizing the event’s potential to generate significant economic impact for Toronto and communities across the province. “The Government of Canada is proud to contribute over $104 million to the FIFA World Cup 26 in Toronto,” she stated. “As one of Canada’s top destinations and home to many culturally diverse and vibrant communities, Toronto will welcome the world in true Canadian spirit.”
#CityOfTO to receive $104.34 million in Federal funding to support hosting FIFA World Cup 26
News release: https://t.co/drsvwrjUUU pic.twitter.com/SMSpCuy8gt
— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) May 3, 2024
Ontario’s Minister Lumsden highlighted the opportunity for the province to demonstrate its prowess in hosting major sporting events. “FIFA World Cup 26 in Toronto presents an unparalleled opportunity for our province to showcase why we are a leading destination for major sporting events,” he said. “Our government is proud to partner with the City of Toronto to deliver an experience that brings Ontarians – and the world – together to celebrate a shared passion for sport.”
The economic impact of hosting the FIFA World Cup is projected to aid Toronto’s long-term recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly benefiting the tourism, hospitality, and entertainment sectors. With over 3,585 jobs anticipated to be created and more than 300,000 out-of-town visitors expected, the city stands poised to reap significant benefits from the event.
The FIFA World Cup 26™ in Toronto is scheduled to kick off on June 12, 2026, with the first-ever FIFA World Cup™ men’s match on Canadian soil, featuring Canada’s Men’s National Team. The excitement will culminate with a knockout round of 32 match on July 2, 2026.
For up-to-date tournament information, interested individuals can follow the FWC26 Toronto Instagram account (@FWC26Toronto) and utilize the tournament hashtags #WeAre26 and #WeAreToronto. More details are also available on the FIFA World Cup 26 Toronto™ webpage (www.torontofwc26.ca).
Commentary:
Toronto’s successful bid to host FIFA World Cup 26™ matches represents a significant achievement for the city and Canada as a whole. The infusion of federal funding underscores the government’s recognition of the event’s potential to drive economic growth, enhance cultural enrichment, and foster community pride.
With preparations well underway, Toronto is poised to deliver a world-class experience for both locals and visitors alike. The FIFA World Cup presents an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Toronto’s vibrancy, diversity, and hospitality on the global stage.
As excitement builds for the tournament, stakeholders across various sectors should capitalize on this momentum to maximize the event’s benefits and ensure a lasting legacy for the city. Toronto’s journey to FIFA World Cup 26™ promises to be a transformative and unforgettable experience for all involved.
