Canada is making big changes as it prepares to help host the 2026 World Cup, the largest tournament in FIFA history. The edition will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026. It will feature 48 national teams and 104 matches across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Canada will stage 13 of those, spread between two cities. Both cities are upgrading stadiums, improving transit, and planning for large crowds of local fans and international visitors.
In January 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the 2026 World Cup will “lift the global mood, spirit and bring so much emotion at the end of the day.”
That applies to everywhere you can find football fans, whether it is in England, the United States or the Philippines. Officials in the North American nations have been preparing to make this possible.
Since the tourney is for everyone, Filipino fans tracking the 2026 tournament are already checking schedules and travel tips as they plan where to go and which games to see. Some will also be considering placing wagers on the outcome of matches. Those in this category should do well to look through guides and trusted reviews to discover reliable betting site philippines that afford them the chance to bet safely.
Punters can also follow industry experts like Adam Bloszko for insights and tips.
Which Canadian Cities Are Hosting the World Cup in 2026?
Canada will host FIFA World Cup matches in Toronto and Vancouver. FIFA confirmed these cities on the 16th of June, 2022. Toronto’s BMO Field will see six matches. Vancouver’s BC Place will hold seven. These two cities are ideal choices because they already have strong sports infrastructure, international airports, and experience hosting large events.
Toronto expects more than 300,000 visitors during the FIFA World Cup. To prepare, the city approved an expansion for BMO Field that will increase seating to about 45,000. This temporary upgrade meets official rules for stadium capacity during a FIFA World Cup match.
BC Place already has more than 54,000 seats.
The province of British Columbia noted upgrades that include a turf replacement, better player rooms, and improved broadcast setups. In June, BC Premier David Eby said, “British Columbia is ready to welcome the world for the biggest event our province has ever hosted… We are ready to showcase our welcoming and open province to guests from every corner of the globe.”
Provincial estimates suggest the competition could generate more than $1 billion in economic activity.
Preparations for the Mundial: How Cities in Canada Are Getting Ready
The cities welcoming football fans and enthusiasts are upgrading stadiums, transit systems, training locations, and security architecture. In Toronto, BMO Field’s expansion is a large project.
Reports revealed that the work will be done in phases so the stadium can still hold local league games during the year. Because the extra seating is temporary, costs stay lower while still meeting FIFA requirements for the competition. Toronto is also putting in place spectator zones with its official FIFA Fan Festival™.
Transit will be critical. The Toronto Transit Commission outlined that it intends to increase subway and bus service for World Cup™ match days. The proposal includes extended hours, faster service, and new pick-up zones for ride-sharing.
Vancouver is taking a similar approach. TransLink will increase peak-hour service on the Canada Line and Expo Line, especially for fans heading to BC Place. It is also improving walkways around the stadium, using lessons learned from concerts and international rugby and soccer.
Both cities are also preparing training sites. In Toronto, a desire for a new standard training facility at Centennial Park in Etobicoke has been noted. It will serve as the main venue-specific training site. Earlier options like Varsity Stadium and Downsview Park were reviewed but not selected. In Vancouver, Killarney Park and Memorial South Park are the main training options, with work already underway to meet official standards.
These fields must meet FIFA rules for pitch quality, lighting, locker rooms, and security.
Security is coordinated at all levels. Federal agencies, local police, and emergency teams will work together throughout the competition. The country already has experience hosting major tournaments, including the 2015 Women’s World Cup, which brought more than 1.3 million spectators.
Other cities may still play supporting roles. Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Montreal have been considered for possible training bases, though not all have been approved. Edmonton was once a candidate location but withdrew because of cost concerns. However, Commonwealth Stadium remains certified for international soccer competitions.
Canada is also committed to lowering the environmental impact of the FIFA World Cup. Toronto plans to use electric vehicles for some services. Vancouver is aligning its work with its Climate Emergency Action Plan, aiming for reduced emissions and cleaner energy use.
Here is a simple look at the main steps The country is taking:
Stadium upgrades and temporary expansions
Stronger transit for game days
Better and more consistent training sites
Coordinated security teams at all levels
Clear sustainability goals
Visitor-help centers and updated online information
These efforts show that Canada wants the FIFA World Cup 26™ to feel safe and easy for every visitor.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup show careful proposition and a clear vision. The selected cities for the beautiful game are expanding stadiums, improving travel, strengthening safety systems, and creating a welcoming environment to draw people from around the world.
With 48 teams, a wider group stage, and a full schedule shared across North America, the 2026 edition will be unlike any before it. The FIFA World Cup will be a major opportunity for Canadian soccer and a chance to show the world what the country can do on a global stage.
