Cost of Hosting FIFA World Cup Matches in Vancouver 2026 Doubles

Organizers preparing for the seven FIFA World Cup soccer matches scheduled for Vancouver in 2026 reveal that the estimated cost of hosting the event has more than doubled in the last two years.

The latest figures suggest that the price range now stands between $483 million and $581 million, encompassing expenses for the city, the province, and stadium upgrades.

The British Columbia government asserts that despite the hefty investment, the event is expected to generate sufficient revenue to result in a net cost ranging between $100 million and $145 million.

Minister of Tourism Lana Popham anticipates that the World Cup will draw approximately 350,000 fans to the province and generate over a billion dollars for tourism in the five years following the games.

The revised cost estimates incorporate updated hosting, operating, and capital requirements following FIFA site visits, escalated inflation assumptions, and provincial expenses, including essential public sector services.

Initially estimated at $260 million in March 2022 for five matches before Vancouver's selection as a host city, the updated figure released by the B.C. government in January 2023 projected the cost of hosting five matches in Vancouver at $230 million, excluding stadium improvements.

Subsequently, FIFA added two more games to the schedule.

Minister Popham explains that the initial estimate was made before officials fully comprehended the hosting requirements, including training sites and fan festivals.

She notes that FIFA has introduced additional revenue-generating opportunities for the province, making the investment worthwhile for British Columbians.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expresses enthusiasm for hosting the World Cup matches, emphasizing the significant long-term benefits despite increased costs.

He compares the influx of visitors to hosting "30 to 40 Super Bowls" over the course of a month.

Approximately $196 million has been allocated for upgrades to BC Place, where the matches will be held, along with operational costs during the tournament.

The stadium, built in 1983 and extensively renovated for the 2010 Winter Olympics, is set to receive enhancements such as more and larger elevators, gender-neutral bathrooms, improved Wi-Fi, and a new central video board.

Furthermore, organizers plan to install a natural grass pitch for the tournament.

However, the surface's sustainability post-event remains uncertain due to challenges associated with maintaining it during other events frequently held at the stadium.

Minister Popham estimates that hotels will operate at 75 percent capacity during the games, encouraging investments in additional hotel rooms to meet the demand.

Sim underscores the positive impact on the tourism industry, job creation, and tax revenues, which can fund social programs.

Federal Minister of Sport Carla Qualtrough highlights Ottawa's investment of $115.66 million to support the event's operation and capital costs, including stadium upgrades.

While Vancouver and Toronto are the two Canadian cities selected to host matches during the 2026 World Cup, Todd Stone, the Opposition BC United house leader, urges the government to release the agreements signed with FIFA to provide residents with a comprehensive understanding of the hosting costs.