An everything guide to World Cup mania

The footy hordes are about to descend. This month, the 2026 FIFA World Cup transforms Toronto into a soccer paradise, with six matches, tons of events and endless parties. The three-week tournament is expected to draw 300,000 visitors, generate $940 million for the local economy and be watched by almost six billion people worldwide. It’s all costing the city $380 million (and counting) in public funds—the price of football glory. Here, everything you need to know about Toronto’s first World Cup.

The stars to follow

Alphonso Davies Canada Expected to wear the captain’s armband, Davies is considered one of the best left-backs in the world and plies his trade with one of Europe’s greatest teams, FC Bayern Munich.

Luka Modrić
Croatia The 40-year-old legend has played in four World Cups and is widely considered one of the greatest midfielders ever.

Jamal Musiala
Germany This boy-faced wonder is Germany’s best young player. Nicknamed Bambi for his graceful strides and slender frame, he tied for top scorer at Euro 2024.

Sadio Mané
Senegal A two-time African Footballer of the Year and Liverpool FC all-timer, Mané is also known for funding a hospital and a school in his hometown of Bambali.

A soup-to-nuts glow-up

BMO Field (renamed Toronto Stadium for the duration of the event) underwent a $160-million upgrade to bring it up to global standards:

• 17,756 temporary seats, increasing total capacity to 45,736
• New hybrid grass-turf pitch to meet FIFA regulations
• Larger broadcast rooms and faster internet for international coverage
• Four new massive LED screens, one in each corner of the stadium
• Enhanced lighting and AV tech
• Expanded kitchen facilities and hospitality spaces
• Self-serve AI tech to slash concession wait times
• A ticketed rooftop patio with a 1,000-person capacity, to be added after the World Cup

Enter the Fan Zone

For those who can’t get tickets, there’s plenty of fun to be had on the other side of the Gardiner. The city is hosting its Fan Festival at Fort York and the Bentway, a short streetcar ride from the stadium. In addition to live telecasts of the matches, the fest will feature live music from Alessia Cara (pictured above), Bedouin Soundclash, Choir! Choir! Choir! and more. There will also be street food, art installations and a mini pitch by artist Alanah Astehtsi’ Otsistóhkwa Jewell. Premium passes range from $100 to $300, but regular access is free.

Watch party central

Brazen Head Irish Pub
165 East Liberty St.

A long-time base for both Toronto FC and Arsenal FC fans, the Brazen Head encourages patrons to “wear their red, join the society and cheer loudly.”

Local Public Eatery
171 East Liberty St.

Another Liberty Village favourite, Local Public Eatery draws in the footy faithful with its giant projector, dozens of screens and cornhole-equipped rooftop patio.

Cafe Diplomatico
594 College St.

The Vatican of Italian soccer in Toronto, the Dip recently hosted a jersey swap, allowing Italian Canadians to trade their classic blues for Canadian kits.

If you watch only one game…

Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
June 12

Team Canada’s rabid travelling fan base, known as the Voyageurs, will be on the edge of their seats at this opening match for the ages. It’s Canada’s chance to earn its first-ever men’s World Cup victory in the first-ever tournament hosted on home soil. And it’s the Reds’ only match in Toronto before they head to Vancouver for their final two group games.

Where to get merch

Soccer World Central
42 Spadina Ave. A Toronto outpost of the beloved chain opened at Spadina and Wellington in January, and soccer heads rejoiced. Its crown jewel is the shoe wall—a giant display for sneakers with cleats.

Era Vintage
486 Front St. W. Just down the street at the Well is Era Vintage, a boutique with a focus on the ’80s and ’90s. It has an entire wing dedicated to sports apparel, with Toronto teams front and centre.

Urban Catwalk
10 Kensington Ave. Shoppers buying on a budget will love this family-owned Kensington classic, which is a go-to for retro kits and T-shirts. But make sure to budget your time as well: the store is packed like a warehouse.