2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada: Host Cities, Stadiums, and Many More
Canada will host FIFA World Cup matches for the first time in history in 2026, joining the United States and Mexico in staging the largest World Cup ever organized. Thirteen matches will be played in Toronto and Vancouver between June 11 and July 19, 2026, including all three of Canada’s group-stage matches.
This guide covers host cities, stadium upgrades, match schedules, national team fixtures, travel planning, ticket details, broadcast information, fan zones and a complete FAQ section.
Host Cities and Stadiums
Canada will host matches in Toronto and Vancouver. Both cities were chosen by FIFA based on stadium readiness, transportation systems, accommodation capacity and overall event-hosting experience.
| City | Stadium | Capacity (WC Mode) | Matches | Surface |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | BMO Field | 45,736 | 6 | Natural grass |
| Vancouver | BC Place | 55,000 | 7 | Temporary natural grass |
Toronto – BMO Field
BMO Field, located at Exhibition Place, will operate under the generic name “Toronto Stadium” during the World Cup. It has hosted MLS Cup finals, national team matches, rugby sevens and the Pan American Games.
Upgrades for 2026
Capacity expanded to 45,736 with temporary seating Four 50×30 foot LED video boards added Concourses renovated and accessibility improved New hospitality and premium spaces added Permanent rooftop patio for 1,000 spectators Total investment of $146 million
Matchday Experience
Open-air stadium, affected by summer weather Easy transit access via TTC and GO Transit Close to Liberty Village’s food and entertainment district
Vancouver – BC Place Stadium
BC Place is the largest venue in Canada and features a retractable roof, offering a climate-controlled match environment. It previously hosted the 2015 Women’s World Cup Final.
Upgrades for 2026
New 360-degree centre-hung video board Renovated suites and upgraded hospitality areas Improved accessibility and additional elevators Temporary natural-grass surface installed Investment between $171 and $181 million
Matchday Experience
Retractable roof ensures weather consistency Located in downtown Vancouver, highly walkable Strong acoustics and energetic stadium atmosphere
Match Distribution in Canada
| Venue | Group Stage | Round of 32 | Round of 16 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | 5 | 1 | 0 | 6 |
| Vancouver | 5 | 1 | 1 | 7 |
| Canada Total | 10 | 2 | 1 | 13 |
Canada National Team Match Schedule
Canada will play all three group matches in Toronto and Vancouver.
| Match | Date | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match 1 | June 12, 2026 | Toronto | First men’s World Cup match in Canada |
| Match 2 | June 18, 2026 | Vancouver | Canada’s second match |
| Match 3 | June 24, 2026 | Vancouver | Final group match |
Broadcast and Streaming Information
Bell Media holds exclusive national broadcast rights for the 2026 World Cup.
English-Language Coverage
CTV broadcasts select top matches TSN provides full tournament coverage TSN Radio offers national audio commentary
French-Language Coverage
RDS carries complete tournament coverage RDS2 supports overflow matches
Streaming Platforms
TSN GO CTV GO TSN.ca RDS GO RDS.ca (All services require subscription authentication)
Tournament Format
The 2026 tournament expands to 48 teams. Nations are divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group plus eight best third-place teams advance, creating a 32-team knockout stage. This format ensures more knockout matches than any previous World Cup.
Toronto Match Schedule
June 12: Group Stage including Canada June 17: Group Stage June 20: Group Stage June 23: Group Stage June 26: Group Stage July 2: Round of 32
Vancouver Match Schedule
June 13: Group Stage June 18: Group Stage including Canada June 21: Group Stage June 24: Group Stage including Canada June 26: Group Stage July 2: Round of 32 July 7: Round of 16
Kickoff times will follow FIFA-standard windows: 12:00, 15:00, 18:00 and 21:00 local.
Fan Festivals and Viewing Areas
Toronto will host Fan Festival events at Fort York and The Bentway. Vancouver’s fan festival is expected at the PNE Amphitheatre.
These spaces offer giant screens, cultural programming, live music and food vendors. Additional public viewing areas will appear in bars, squares, parks and community zones.
Tickets: Prices, Access and Sales Windows
Ticket Price Ranges
Toronto prices range from $84 to $2,443 Vancouver prices range from $84 to $826 Canada’s opening match is expected to exceed $500 minimum
Sales Timeline
Second lottery: October 27–31, 2025 Third lottery: Following the December 5, 2025 draw Additional ticket phases: Early 2026
CanadaRed Program
Canada Soccer receives an 8 percent allocation of Canada match tickets 3,600 tickets for Toronto and 4,320 for Vancouver CanadaRed membership required for access
Resale Market Trends
Projected premium seat resale prices Toronto: $3,000 to $5,000 Vancouver: $6,000 to $9,000
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Hotels in Toronto and Vancouver will book quickly and increase in price as the tournament approaches. Early reservations are recommended.
Accommodation Options
Airbnb and VRBO rentals University dormitory housing at UBC and University of Toronto Hotels in suburbs such as Mississauga, Richmond and Burnaby Campgrounds and RV sites for budget travelers
Transportation
Toronto: TTC streetcars and GO Transit serve Exhibition Place Vancouver: SkyTrain’s Expo Line connects directly to BC Place
Weather Expectations
Toronto: Warm and humid, 20°C to 27°C Vancouver: Mild at 18°C to 22°C with occasional rain BC Place can close its roof if weather requires
Why 2026 Will Impact Canadian Soccer Long-Term
Hosting the World Cup is expected to drive major growth in Canadian soccer. Youth participation, national team visibility, sponsorship opportunities and overall infrastructure quality will improve significantly. Stadium upgrades in both cities will benefit future events and professional teams. The 2026 World Cup represents a rare opportunity that may not occur again for decades.
Important Dates
October 27–31, 2025: Second ticket lottery December 5, 2025: World Cup group draw May 12, 2026: FIFA assumes stadium operations June 11, 2026: Tournament begins June 12, 2026: Canada’s opening match in Toronto July 19, 2026: World Cup Final in New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a passport to travel between Toronto and Vancouver?
No. Domestic flights require only standard Canadian identification. International visitors must carry passports.
Do American fans need a visa to attend matches in Canada?
No. US citizens can enter Canada without a visa using a valid passport. Other international visitors may need a visa or an eTA depending on nationality.
Are US dollars accepted in Canadian stadiums?
Generally no. Stadium vendors accept Canadian dollars. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs at stadiums dispense Canadian currency.
What weather can fans expect during the tournament?
Toronto is warm and humid in June and July. Vancouver is milder with occasional showers. BC Place’s retractable roof protects spectators.
Are French-language services available at the venues?
Yes. Both stadiums offer bilingual signage, announcements and staff assistance.
Can fans bring flags or banners?
Yes, if the flag is under one metre and attached to a flexible pole. Metal and wooden poles are not permitted.
Will cellular service work inside the stadiums?
Yes. Both venues have enhanced cellular networks and upgraded Wi-Fi systems.
Will Canadian foods like poutine be available?
Yes. Both stadiums will offer Canadian cuisine alongside international dishes.
Will there be Indigenous programming?
Yes. Both host cities plan Indigenous cultural performances, food vendors and community-focused programming at fan events.
