Toronto will host six matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with games scheduled at BMO Field. The tournament, which is jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, marks the first time Canada will host matches in the men’s competition. FIFA officially confirmed the match schedule in February 2024, designating Toronto as one of two Canadian host cities alongside Vancouver.
Where will the 2026 World Cup matches take place in Toronto?
All Toronto-based matches will be held at BMO Field, located at Exhibition Place. To meet FIFA’s capacity requirements, the City of Toronto and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) are overseeing a temporary expansion of the stadium. According to the City of Toronto’s official project documentation, the stadium’s capacity will be increased to approximately 45,000 seats to comply with tournament standards. This expansion involves the construction of temporary seating structures, which will be removed following the conclusion of the event.
What is the economic impact of hosting the World Cup?
The financial implications of hosting the tournament remain a primary focus for municipal and provincial officials. According to a report from the City of Toronto, the total cost to host the six matches is estimated at approximately $380 million CAD. This funding is sourced from the municipal, provincial, and federal governments.
The city projects that hosting the tournament will generate significant economic activity, including increased tourism, hotel occupancy, and local spending. However, the scale of public investment has drawn scrutiny regarding the balance between short-term hosting costs and long-term infrastructure benefits. Unlike permanent stadium renovations seen in other host cities, the temporary nature of the BMO Field expansion means the facility will return to its standard capacity once the tournament ends.
How does Toronto’s hosting role compare to other cities?
Toronto is one of 16 host cities selected across North America. While Toronto is confirmed for six matches, Vancouver will host seven, including several matches for the Canadian men’s national team. The distribution of matches is determined by FIFA based on venue capacity, infrastructure readiness, and logistical requirements.
| City | Country | Matches |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | Canada | 6 |
| Vancouver | Canada | 7 |
| Multiple US Cities | USA | Various |
| Multiple Mexican Cities | Mexico | Various |
What happens next for local fans?
FIFA has begun the process for ticket applications and volunteer recruitment. Fans interested in attending matches are directed to the official FIFA website to register for updates on ticket sales phases. The tournament is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with the final match taking place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Local residents should expect significant traffic and security adjustments in the Exhibition Place area leading up to and during the tournament dates.