April 9 – FIFA has set out plans to take the 2026 World Cup well beyond its host cities in Canada, unveiling a nationwide fan engagement programme designed to reach the majority of the population and extend the tournament’s commercial and cultural footprint.
With the support of the government, municipalities and other partners, the “Canada Celebrates” initiative will span 38 stops across 34 communities across the world’s second-largest country, running throughout the tournament window from 11 June to 19 July. It will include supporting stops for the World Cup Trophy Tour, too.
FIFA says more than 75% of Canadian residents will be within a two-hour drive of at least one stop – a scale that underlines the governing body’s intent to maximise reach in a geographically vast co-host nation that has six time zones and stretches almost 5,000 miles east to west.
While Toronto and Vancouver will stage matches, the programme stretches from Whitehorse to Halifax, combining live match screenings with football activations, cultural events and sponsor-led experiences. FIFA’s commercial model will be embedded throughout, with partners including Coca-Cola, Kia, Michelob Ultra, Hisense, McDonald’s and The Home Depot, alongside media partner Bell Media, all contributing to delivery on the ground.
FIFA Vice-President and Concacaf President Victor Montagliani said: “As a Canadian, it’s incredibly meaningful to bring a taste of the FIFA World Cup 2026 to communities across the country and ensure Canadian residents can be part of this historic moment. We’re proud to work alongside such passionate partners to deliver experiences that reflect a shared pride and love of football, across Canada.”
He added: “Beyond hosting matches in Toronto and Vancouver, this FIFA World Cup will create a legacy for football in this country – inspiring the next generation and growing the game for years to come. We look forward to visiting all 34 communities as part of this global celebration.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at [email protected]