BC Place

Venue Information

Capacity: 54,500

Vancouver is actively preparing to host seven matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at BC Place, including two of Canada's group stage games and two knockout fixtures. The city is undertaking significant upgrades to the stadium and broader infrastructure to accommodate the global event.

BC Place Preparations and Events:

BC Place is scheduled to host five group stage matches, one Round of 32 match, and one Round of 16 match. Canada's national team is set to play two of its group fixtures at BC Place on June 18 and June 24, 2026. The stadium, which has a seating capacity of 54,000, has previously hosted major events, including the FIFA Women's World Cup 2015 final.

Extensive renovations are underway at BC Place to meet FIFA's standards. The first phase, scheduled for 2024, includes upgrades to VIP suites and hospitality spaces, modernization of food outlets, and renovations to restrooms and elevators. In 2025, further renovations will encompass a banquet hall and lounge, locker rooms, a souvenir shop, and a premium entrance with a connection to the Parq hotel and casino. Adjustments to the playing surface, seating areas, accessibility, technology, and security systems are also planned. The general manager of BC Place, Chris May, mentioned adding three new passenger elevators, upgrading washrooms to include gender-neutral facilities, and enhancing locker rooms with individual showers and better facilities for teams, all aimed at a much better guest experience. While there's major excitement, the upgrades and operating costs for the World Cup could reach $181 million.

Wider Vancouver Preparations and Events:

Vancouver is embracing the "Road to Vancouver 2026" with various initiatives. This includes the creation of a "Vancouver Sonic ID" remixing the tournament's theme with local culture (March 10, 2025) and the unveiling of Vancouver's Official Host City Poster (April 15, 2025). A "1 Year To Go" celebration was held on June 11, 2025, which included hosting youth from BC Soccer's Access to Soccer program. Volunteer opportunities for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Volunteer Program are expected to be available by August 11, 2025. Mayor Ken Sim declared June 13 "Soccer Day" and unveiled a giant countdown clock for the World Cup.

The city is also planning a FIFA Fan Festival at the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE). This festival will allow fans to watch matches on a big screen in a state-of-the-art amphitheater. Vancouver is addressing potential challenges such as hotel shortages, infrastructure gaps, and healthcare capacity. The official team draws, which will determine which teams play in Vancouver, are expected in December 2025. This information is crucial for finalizing plans for the fan festival, player training sites, and managing visitor influx at Vancouver International Airport. Local organizers are also focusing on creating a unique atmosphere to make Vancouver stand out among other host cities.

The tournament will officially kick off on June 11, 2026, with the final on July 19, 2026.