The 2026 men’s World Cup concludes today with the final between Spain and defending champion Argentina, marking the end of Canada’s historic role as a host nation. Fans are gathering in Toronto and Vancouver for public watch parties at official FIFA Fan Festivals, with bars and restaurants in both cities preparing for large crowds.
Canada’s World Cup hosting legacy
Toronto hosted six matches during the tournament, while Vancouver staged seven, as part of the first 48-team men’s World Cup held across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The event transformed public spaces in both cities into vibrant soccer hubs, attracting supporters from around the globe.
The championship match, expected to draw a global television audience of nearly two billion viewers, caps off a month-long celebration that saw Canada embrace its hosting duties. However, the final financial toll of staging the tournament remains unclear.
Economic impact of hosting
In May, Canada’s independent parliamentary budget officer estimated total hosting costs at approximately $1.066 billion. This includes:
- $473 million in federal expenses
- Up to $729 million in projected costs for British Columbia
- $380 million in Toronto
The full financial reckoning, including any additional expenses, will not be known for months.
