Vancouver: Thé city will host seven FIFA World Cup matches in 2026. Now, the province, City of Vancouver and BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo) have updated their estimates of the costs, revenues and economic benefits for the world’s largest single sporting event.
“Marquee sporting events like the FIFA World Cup 26 have the power to inspire people to get involved in sport, amplify community spirit and put a spotlight on our incredible province,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.
“We are excited to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors to Vancouver and British Columbia during the World Cup to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with us, boost our tourism sector and economy and help secure lasting benefits for the people of B.C.,” she said in a statement.
According to the province, the gross core cost for FIFA World Cup 26 in Vancouver is estimated to be between $483 million and $581 million.
“These gross costs are expected to be offset by $383 million to $436 million in estimated revenues and recoveries, including $116 million in direct financial contribution from the federal government;$230 million in estimated revenue from the additional major events municipal and regional district tax introduced in the City of Vancouver in February 2023; and $37 million to $90 million in anticipated revenue from other sources, such as facility rental fees and the FIFA commercial revenue program, which includes revenue opportunities at the FIFA fan festival, and opportunities for host city supporters and donors, and other provincial revenue,” the province provided information in a statement.
The province estimates the net core cost of seven FIFA World Cup 26 matches to be $100 million to $145 million.
This does not take into account potential additional provincial tax revenues as identified in the Province’s updated estimates of economic impact benefits, which are projected to be $224 million.
“The Government of Canada is proud to contribute close to $116 million to the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup in Vancouver, B.C. This event will showcase the hospitality, cultural diversity and landscape of British Columbia, while generating significant economic impact for communities across the province,” said Carla Qualtrough, federal Minister of Sport and Physical Activity. “Canadians are excited to cheer on Team Canada here at home. We are also excited to welcome the world to Vancouver in 2026!,” she added.