Toronto will make sports history on June 12 as BMO Field has been designated as the site for Canada’s inaugural match of the FIFA World Cup 26.
The unveiling of the comprehensive match schedule marks a milestone for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which includes a record-breaking 104 matches involving 48 teams across 16 host cities spanning three nations — Canada, Mexico, and the United States and 16 host cities.
Toronto’s selection marks a significant moment as it becomes the first Canadian venue to host a FIFA World Cup fixture, and will host six matches. The city has a notable track record of hosting prestigious soccer events, having previously held matches during the FIFA U-17 World Cup, FIFA U-20 World Cup, and FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
Canada’s national team is poised to showcase its prowess on home turf, with all three group stage encounters scheduled to take place within the country. Following the opening clash in Toronto, BC Place Vancouver will host Canada’s subsequent group stage matches on Thursday, June 18, and Wednesday, June 24.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino appeared alongside hosts comedian Kevin Hart and sports broadcaster Jenny Taft in Miami for the announcement. The event, no surprise here, also included Toronto rapper Drake, who spoke about the city’s and the country’s sports passion sending a message to the world that “We’ll be ready for you.”
Canada made it to the last tournament in 2022 but failed to win a match and did not advance further than the group stage.
