CANADA WORLD CUP COST ESTIMATED AT C$1.066 BILLION

Canada is expected to spend C$1.066 billion in public support to co-host the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer. Reuters reported that the estimate amounts to about C$82 million per match.

The PBO estimated federal support at C$473 million, with another C$593 million coming from provincial and municipal governments. Canada is scheduled to host 13 matches during the tournament, split between Toronto and Vancouver.

Reuters reported that Toronto is expected to host six games, while Vancouver is expected to host seven. The tournament will be co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

The federal government has also allocated up to C$145 million for tournament security, according to Reuters. The PBO said the estimated public cost per game is aligned with past public spending on World Cup events.

The report gives a clearer picture of the public cost attached to Canada’s role in the tournament. Supporters of major events often point to tourism, international visibility, and economic activity, while critics tend to focus on public cost, security spending, and whether long-term benefits justify the expense.

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