Competition Bureau Unveils Reporting Tool to Safeguard FIFA World Cup 26 Contracts

Author:

Olivia Phillips

|Published: March 22nd, 2024

The Competition Bureau has introduced a new reporting tool to enable the public and business community to flag potential collusive agreements among competitors vying for contracts associated with the FIFA World Cup 26, jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Launching this initiative, the Bureau aims to combat illegal agreements that may compromise fair competition and jeopardize the integrity of markets, particularly in host cities Toronto and Vancouver, where a surge in business contracts is anticipated ahead of the 2026 tournament.

Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell emphasized the Bureau's commitment: "We will do everything in our power to prevent Canada's host cities and taxpayers from falling victim to unscrupulous business conduct. We are determined to pursue those who seek to unjustly profit from contracts related to the World Cup."

Individuals possessing information about competitors engaging in collusive practices to secure World Cup-related contracts are encouraged to utilize the reporting tool to notify the Bureau promptly.

Various forms of collusion, including price-fixing, bid-rigging, non-compete agreements, wage-fixing, and no-poaching agreements, pose significant threats to fair competition and market transparency.

In collaboration with Toronto and Vancouver, the Competition Bureau is actively engaged in fostering fair and transparent public procurement processes to safeguard against unfair business practices during the World Cup's contract bidding phase.

Quick Facts:

The FIFA World Cup 26 matches, scheduled for June and July 2026, will be hosted in 16 cities in Canada, the United States, and Mexico
Toronto will host six matches, and Vancouver will host 7
A surge in business contracts spanning various sectors, including construction, tourism, and entertainment, is anticipated as a result of the World Cup
The Competition Act prohibits collusive behavior among business competitors, encompassing bid-rigging, price-fixing, market allocation, wage-fixing, and no-poaching agreements
The Competition Bureau offers free information sessions to aid businesses in identifying anti-competitive conduct. It provides a Collusion Risk Assessment Tool for procurement officers and purchasing agents to mitigate collusion risks
Immunity and Leniency Programs are available for those seeking immunity or leniency in exchange for cooperation with the Bureau's investigations into illegal agreements
The Bureau's Whistleblowing Initiative ensures confidentiality for individuals reporting potential violations of the Competition Act