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FIFA World Cup 2026 hits halfway mark, delivers immediate benefits to B.C.

Press Release

June 29, 2026

Province, partners recognize Canada Men’s National Team, social and economic impacts in communities

VANCOUVER –

Summary

  • Canada’s match against Qatar at BC Place Vancouver was watched by 11.7 million viewers nationwide, making it the most watched FIFA World Cup group stage match ever in Canada
  • The first five matches at BC Place Vancouver were full houses, with FIFA reporting 52,497 attendees at each match
  • More than 330,000 people attended FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver between June 11 and June 28, 2026
  • Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association reports that bars, restaurants are exceeding sales expectations, and retailers are seeing increased foot traffic
  • The Province is committed to ensuring everyone in B.C. benefits from hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 by investing in legacy projects such as the Mini Peaks Legacy Program, funding community events and watch parties and providing 500 free match tickets to children and youth

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 just past the halfway mark, Vancouver and British Columbia are seeing the positive impacts on people, businesses and communities, as people in British Columbia celebrate the success of the Canada Men’s National Team as it advances to the round of 16 in the knockout stage.

“Seeing everyone in Vancouver and British Columbia come together to cheer for Canada has been nothing short of inspiring,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts Culture and Sport. “We are showing the world that British Columbia is a welcoming place where multiculturalism thrives and everyone is welcome, no matter what colour jersey you wear. We are incredibly proud of the accomplishments of the Canada Men’s National Team and look forward to hosting two more matches in Vancouver.”

Five Vancouver-hosted group stage matches and numerous watch parties at FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver and in communities throughout the province have brought visitors from around the world and British Columbians together for soccer-themed events and celebrations. Thousands of fans have participated in fan marches leading up to each match held in Vancouver. Every match at BC Place Vancouver so far has been a full house, according to FIFA, including Canada’s historic 6-0 win against Qatar that saw a record-breaking 11.7 million unique Canadian viewers watch the TSN, CTV, Crave, Noovo and RDS broadcasted match.

FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver has seen more than 330,000 attendees from June 11-28, 2026, with the biggest crowds on June 18 during the Canada-Qatar match, on June 24 when the newly built amphitheatre sold out for Canada’s match against Switzerland, and on June 28 when fans watched Canada win its first-ever knockout stage match against South Africa. Fans lined up before the doors opened, demonstrating the interest in free access to the amphitheatre floor, provided by the City of Vancouver and the Province.

“Vancouver has embraced the FIFA World Cup with incredible energy, pride and hospitality,” said Ken Sim, mayor of Vancouver. “From the electric atmosphere along the Last Mile to the thousands of people gathering at the FIFA Fan Festival, fans have come together at events, watch parties and community celebrations across the city, turning Vancouver into a vibrant celebration of the world’s game.”

The Province is committed to ensuring that the legacy of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 is felt long after the final whistle. In partnership with PavCo and the Vancouver Host Committee, 500 free tickets have been provided through the BC Place Community Benefits Program to children and youth facing barriers, so they can attend matches at BC Place Vancouver and experience the unifying power of sport. Additionally, in partnership with viaSport and the Vancouver Whitecaps, the Mini Peaks Legacy Program will deliver up to 20 state-of-the-art mini pitches to communities, supporting year-round play and inclusive recreation.

Immediate economic impacts on businesses

Businesses throughout Vancouver are reporting significant increases in sales, especially on match days, with some restaurants and bars reporting increases as high as 40%.

“My staff set high goals for their weekly sales targets, and we’ve been exceeding them by more than 50% since the start of the tournament,” said William Donnellan, owner, Donnellan’s Irish Pub on Vancouver’s Granville Street. “I’ve heard from my fellow business owners in the area that there has been a huge amount of positive feedback from fans, patrons and employees. Even my family back in Ireland say that they’re seeing positive coverage of Vancouver and B.C. that is enhancing our international profile.”

Some establishments are reporting sales higher than on St. Patrick’s Day and during the Super Bowl.

“The positive impact of pedestrianizing Granville during the FIFA World Cup simply cannot be overstated,” said Nate Sabine, director of business development, Good Co. Granville. “Fans of every age, nationality and background have come together to celebrate, with people literally brought to tears as their teams advance. Our staff have earned more than they ever have before and our relationships with Downtown Van, the City, and the Province have never been stronger.”

Other businesses getting economic benefits include:

  • Sports apparel stores are selling out of Canada jerseys.
  • Nightclubs have seen record-breaking sales.
  • Tattoo parlours have seen a significant increase in clients, many of whom are looking for Maple Leaf ink to showcase Canadian pride.
  • Some Vancouver-based retailers are reporting a 13% jump in television sales year-over-year in the first half of June and a 33% increase year-over-year for TV screens 70 inches and bigger.
  • Vancouver International Airport is reporting that nearly 1.8 million passengers have flown through the airport, with a daily average of more than 85,000 passengers.

“The passion of Canadian supporters and fans who have travelled here from around the world have created an unforgettable atmosphere and truly become our national team’s 12th player,” Sim said. “As we look ahead to the remaining matches, we’re excited to welcome even more visitors and encourage residents and businesses alike to keep being part of this once-in-a-generation celebration. This tournament is already creating memories that will last a lifetime and showing the world that Vancouver knows how to host major events with heart, energy and community spirit.”

Long-term economic opportunities

The Province has been working in collaboration with Destination BC to showcase B.C. to the world, encouraging visitation and ensuring that the tourism and economic benefits of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 are felt throughout the province. The work is a key priority of B.C.’s Look West: Tourism Sector Action Plan, which aims to capitalize on the global exposure of major events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 to attract international visitors not just during the event, but for years to come.

“The World Cup is delivering real benefits for B.C. businesses today, while building long-term opportunities for growth and good jobs for British Columbians in the years to come,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth. “Through B.C. Business House, we are showcasing B.C. industries to global delegations and connecting local businesses with international partners. Our Look West strategy is opening new markets for B.C., and with the global spotlight on us, we are already reaching them.”

B.C. Business House, a flagship initiative showcasing seven of B.C.’s key industries to international partners during the tournament, has seen strong engagement. To date, B.C. Business House has welcomed nearly 900 attendees, including international delegates representing countries such as Albania, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Finland, Italy, Mexico, Romania, South Korea, Sweden, Singapore, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as representatives from the European Union. Participants have included foreign governments, trade agencies, chambers of commerce and businesses. Several delegates attended multiple showcases, contributing to sustained engagement and deeper connections and demonstrating strong global interest in British Columbia as a place to invest, partner and grow.

Community events bring FIFA World Cup 2026 excitement to all corners of B.C.

FIFA World Cup excitement isn’t only being felt in Vancouver. The Province has been committed to ensuring that people throughout British Columbia benefit from Vancouver hosting seven matches of the FIFA World Cup. Throughout the province, community events and soccer-themed watch parties are helping people feel the excitement and make memories together while watching their favourite teams play. On June 24, 2026, Victoria, Kamloops, Terrace and Nelson organized community events to cheer on Canada when they took on Switzerland in the match that secured their place in the knockout stage. These community events support local businesses and encourage people from different cultures and different countries to come together to celebrate the spirit of soccer and the FIFA World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026 making memories that belong to everyone

Beyond the immediate impact on businesses throughout Vancouver, people throughout the province are embracing soccer, such as the Sunset Beach Football Club, which is fuelling a rise in street soccer in Vancouver. The group welcomes players from around the world, alongside those who have lived in Canada all their lives, reflecting multiculturalism and inclusivity of both British Columbia and the beautiful game. Fans in communities such as Campbell River, Tumbler Ridge and Revelstoke hosted community events and watch parties that promoted local youth soccer clubs and encouraged residents to get involved in soccer, support local businesses and foster community connection and strength.

The Province, in partnership with FIFA, the Vancouver Host Committee, PavCo and the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, YVR and TransLink will continue to work to bring the excitement, energy and economic benefits throughout B.C. during the second half of the World Cup.

Quick Facts:

  • The Canada Men’s National Team advanced to the round of 16 by beating South Africa 1-0 June 28, 2026, in Los Angeles.
  • Vancouver is set to host two more games of the FIFA World Cup 2026: July 2 and July 7, 2026, with community based events scheduled throughout the province.
  • Translink recorded its highest system-wide ridership numbers on June 24, 2026, when 1.4 million people in Vancouver boarded buses, SkyTrains and Seabuses on the Canada-Switzerland match day.
  • Over the five years following the tournament, British Columbia is expected to benefit from an estimated one million additional out-of-province visitors and more than $1 billion in additional visitor spending.

Learn More:

A backgrounder follows.

Contact:
Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
Media Relations
Jill.Nessel@gov.bc.ca

BACKGROUNDER

What people are saying about the benefits of FIFA World Cup in British Columbia

yəχʷyaχʷələq Chief Wayne Sparrow, Musqueam Indian Band –

“Musqueam is honoured to continue welcoming visitors from around the world to our traditional territory as we mark this important milestone in the FIFA World Cup journey. Through our partnership with the Host City of Vancouver and the Province of British Columbia, we have worked to ensure Indigenous voices, culture and community are meaningfully reflected throughout this tournament. It has been incredible to see the energy, connection and opportunity this event has created, and we look forward to the excitement still to come in the weeks ahead.”

Tewanee Joseph, CEO, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Major Sports, Entertainment and Marquee Events Secretariat –

“We are honoured to host the people of the world on the lands of our Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Territory. It has been an amazing milestone for our Nation — and we’re only halfway through! Watching visitors from all over the globe engage with our history, our culture, and our People has been deeply meaningful. Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw welcomes the people of the world with open hearts — and we can’t wait to see what the second half of FIFA World Cup 2026™ will bring.”

səlilwətaɬ Chief Justin George (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) –

“The electric spirit and celebration of this FIFA World Cup in Vancouver on our shared, traditional lands has united cultures from around the world. Our Canadian team has made us all proud to advance to the Round of 16 for the first time in Canadian men’s soccer history. We are proud to serve as a Host City Supporter and excited to carry on this celebration with the world. We invite everyone to our Tsleil-Waututh coastal village at the FIFA Fan Festival to become immersed in our rich culture, learn about our territory, stewardship, governance, and economic growth, and observe our carvers and weavers bringing our culture to life.”

Adam van Koeverden, federal Secretary of State for Sport –

“We’re officially at the halfway mark of the FIFA World Cup 2026, and Canada is showing exactly what we’re made of. Just look at Vancouver, the energy and confidence in that city right now is incredible. The real victory here goes far beyond hosting a flawless series of matches; it’s about the legacy left behind. We are already seeing the positive impact in communities across the country: local businesses are benefiting, tourism is growing and fans are coming together, as this event creates a legacy that will inspire Canadians for generations. This is how you host the world.”

Jessie Adcock, lead, FIFA World Cup 2026 Vancouver Host Committee –

“Once again, Vancouver is showing the world how we show up as a host city for major sporting events. It’s fantastic to see how Vancouverites have embraced the FIFA World Cup 2026 over the past two weeks and the energy, colour and passion across the city is truly unrivalled. Whether you’re a seasoned supporter or a recent convert to the beautiful game, we’re excited to welcome fans to the two remaining matches at BC Place Vancouver, our biggest watch party at FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver or the many viewing opportunities throughout Vancouver’s neighbourhoods.”

Rehana Din, president and CEO, PavCo –

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been a defining moment for BC Place Vancouver. Over these first five matches we have had the honour of welcoming world-class teams, celebrating historic moments of national pride and creating an electric atmosphere with a full house of more than 52,497 fans for each match. It’s been incredibly rewarding to hear such positive feedback from players, supporters and media alike. Whether they are visiting Vancouver for the first time or cheering on their home nation, people are telling us how welcoming the stadium feels, how easy it is to navigate and how unforgettable the experience has been.”

Andy Margolis, VP and COO, Vancouver International Airport –

“YVR has been welcoming more than 85,000 travellers a day during the tournament, providing a leading experience for those arriving to celebrate and participate in the FIFA World Cup. The pride and community spirit has been on full display at YVR, from the Musqueam welcomes provided for each football team to the smooth, well-co-ordinated operations to date, supported by strong partnerships at every step. As we move into the busiest stretch of FIFA World Cup with the final two knockout games in Vancouver, we remain focused on maintaining that momentum as we continue to showcase YVR’s signature hospitality, reliability and resilience on the global stage.”

Kevin Quinn, CEO, TransLink –

“The FIFA World Cup is creating benefits that extend well beyond the stadium, with people travelling throughout the region on transit to experience everything Metro Vancouver has to offer. More than one million customer trips during the first week reflects not only the demand for transit, but the important role it plays in connecting people to local businesses, attractions and communities. I’m proud of the teams working every day to keep people moving safely and reliably during this historic event.”

Jane Talbot, president and CEO, Downtown Van –

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 has been transformative for businesses along Granville Street. The Granville Street Pedestrian Zone has revitalized our entertainment district, driving record sales for many local businesses and creating an energy that Vancouver hasn’t experienced since the 2010 Winter Olympics. It has brought people of all ages and cultures together in celebration, demonstrating the incredible potential of a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly Granville Street. The success of this temporary project offers an exciting vision for the future of Granville.”

Ian Tostensen, president and CEO, British Columbia Restaurant and Foodservices Association –

“The FIFA World Cup is proving to be much more than a sporting event. Based on operator surveys, site visits and discussions with industry suppliers, businesses across British Columbia are reporting a conservative 5-10% increase in food purchasing, while restaurants near fan zones are seeing increases of up to 40%. The tournament is boosting our economy while showcasing B.C.’s hospitality, cultural diversity and culinary excellence.”

Royce Chwin, president and CEO, Destination Vancouver –

“We knew we’d be welcoming the world to Vancouver during FIFA World Cup 2026. This has also been our opportunity to bring Vancouver to the world. Every match, every visitor and every story shared from here helps showcase what makes this destination so special. The immediate economic impact is important, but the lasting legacy will be the global awareness, stronger reputation and future visitation these moments and this tournament inspire.”

Jake S., BC Place Community Benefit Program youth ticket recipient for the New Zealand-Belgium match –

“It was an incredible experience, and I’m extremely grateful for being able to experience such a special opportunity. The atmosphere was incredible, and being able to experience a FIFA World Cup match made it even more special. It is a lifelong memory that I will carry with me forever.”

Contact:
Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
Media Relations
Jill.Nessel@gov.bc.ca

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