As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup hits 500 days, Toronto’s preparations are in full swing. With ambitious infrastructure upgrades, expanded staff, and bold visions for the future of Canadian soccer, the city is set to host one of the most significant global sporting events of the decade.
A Hub of Activity: Toronto’s FIFA Office
Toronto’s FIFA World Cup office has blossomed into a bustling headquarters over the past year, located in a converted factory adorned with Maple Leaf motifs and historic World Cup memorabilia. A display of official match balls dating back to 1970 and a striking 2026 trophy cut-out reflect the pride and energy fueling the Canadian leg of the tournament.
The office, which currently houses over 50 staff members, is expected to grow to 80 by the time the tournament begins. An additional 600–700 volunteers and personnel will join during the event itself, making it a major logistical operation.
The Long Road to Hosting
The dream of hosting the men’s FIFA World Cup began over a decade ago, during a 2011 dinner in Vancouver. Peter Montopoli, then general secretary of Canada Soccer, and Victor Montagliani, now president of CONCACAF, dared to envision what many thought impossible.
“When we announced the bid in 2012, it was met with skepticism,” Montagliani recalled. However, the persistence of these visionaries has paid off. In 2026, Canada will co-host the World Cup with the United States and Mexico, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of soccer in the country.
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A Tournament of Firsts
The 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded format with 48 teams competing in 104 matches. Canada and Mexico will each host 13 games, while the United States will stage 78 matches. Toronto and Vancouver will each host five group-stage matches, along with one knockout game.
“This is not the culmination; it’s the beginning of a new era for the sport in our country,” Montagliani stated. The tournament is expected to serve as a launching pad for a new generation of soccer talent and fans in Canada.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Transforming Stadiums
To meet FIFA’s requirements, Toronto’s BMO Field is undergoing significant renovations. The stadium will add 17,750 seats, bringing its capacity to 45,735. While some additions will be temporary, permanent upgrades such as suites and video boards will enhance the spectator experience.
Meanwhile, Vancouver’s B.C. Place Stadium is installing a new ring of permanent suites, ensuring it meets the high standards of a World Cup venue. Both cities will have their offices within walking distance of their respective stadiums, streamlining operations.
Behind the Scenes: Meticulous Planning
The Toronto office oversees a complex range of responsibilities, from stadium logistics and security to legal matters and government relations. Collaborating with FIFA offices in Miami, Mexico, and Zurich, the team is leaving no detail to chance.
Key milestones include the tournament draw, scheduled for late 2025, and the unveiling of mascots, official songs, and posters. Fans eager to attend can already register for tickets on FIFA’s website, with single-game tickets set to go on sale after the draw.
Training Grounds and Team Clusters
While Vancouver has confirmed its training facilities at Killarney Park and Memorial South Park, Toronto is finalizing options such as Centennial Park. Teams will be grouped into clusters, with Toronto linked to U.S. cities like Philadelphia and Boston, ensuring convenient travel for teams and fans.
Overcoming Challenges: Traffic and Security
Hosting a global event in a bustling city like Toronto comes with logistical hurdles. FIFA’s transport experts are working to address traffic issues, while stadium security zones will be significantly expanded.
“This is not like any event we’ve hosted before,” Montopoli emphasized. “The operational and logistical demands are unprecedented.”
A Legacy Beyond 2026
The impact of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will extend far beyond the tournament itself. Montagliani envisions this as the starting point for a new era in Canadian soccer. With upgraded infrastructure, increased public interest, and a legacy of hosting excellence, Canada is poised to elevate the sport to new heights.
As Toronto and Vancouver race to meet the tournament’s demands, the excitement is palpable. For Canadian soccer fans, the 2026 World Cup promises to be more than just a sporting event—it’s a moment of transformation and national pride.
Photo of the portrait: Depositphotos
