Toronto Unveils Major Upgrades to BMO Field Ahead of FIFA World Cup 26

TORONTO – The City of Toronto, in partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), has announced a $146 million transformation of BMO Field to prepare for FIFA World Cup 26™. The upgrades will enhance the stadium’s infrastructure and fan experience, leaving a lasting legacy for sports and entertainment in the city.

The City of Toronto is investing $123 million into the renovations, while MLSE is contributing an additional $23 million. The enhancements will increase the stadium’s capacity, improve player and broadcast facilities, and introduce cutting-edge technology to elevate the matchday experience.

FIFA World Cup 26™ Enhancements:

• Seating capacity will increase to 45,000, with 10,000 temporary seats added in the north grandstand and 7,000 in the south grandstand.
• Upgraded locker rooms and player spaces will accommodate international teams.
• Enhanced broadcast infrastructure will support global television coverage.

Additional Stadium Upgrades:

• Four new LED videoboards, upgraded lighting, and a state-of-the-art audio system will enhance fan engagement.
• AI-powered self-serve concession technology will streamline checkout lines.
• Improved Wi-Fi capabilities will support increased fan capacity.
• A new kitchen and additional concession stands will enhance food service efficiency.
• The playing field will be upgraded, and new dugouts will be added.
• A new centre-field lounge and renovated suites will offer premium experiences.
• A 1,000-person rooftop patio will be introduced post-tournament.

Construction Timeline: The renovations are divided into two phases:

• Phase 1: Began in December 2024 and will continue through August 2025.
• Phase 2: Runs from December 2025 to March 2026 to finalize enhancements before the tournament.

During construction, BMO Field will remain open for all scheduled Toronto FC and Toronto Argonauts games. Temporary adjustments to entry points and videoboards will be in place during the 2025 season.

Economic Impact: A Deloitte Canada assessment released by FIFA in December 2024 projects FIFA World Cup 26™ could generate up to $940 million in economic activity for the Greater Toronto Area. This includes $520 million in GDP growth, $340 million in labor income, and $25 million in government revenue. The tournament is also expected to create more than 6,600 jobs between 2023 and 2026.

Toronto’s FIFA World Cup 26™ Matches: Toronto will host six World Cup matches, including the historic first-ever men’s FIFA World Cup match on Canadian soil on June 12, 2026, featuring Canada’s Men’s National Team. The city will also host a round of 32 match on July 2, 2026.

Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized the significance of these investments, stating that the enhancements will not only support Team Canada but also benefit future generations of Canadian athletes.

The upgrades will solidify Toronto’s reputation as a world-class sports and entertainment destination, ensuring the city can continue hosting major international events beyond FIFA World Cup 26™.

SOURCE City of Toronto