It’s 1 year until the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Is Vancouver ready?
As we approach the one-year countdown to the FIFA World Cup, there are still lingering questions about the logistics of hosting the event in Vancouver. One major concern is where soccer fans visiting the city will stay and the associated costs of ensuring their safety during the tournament.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim addressed these concerns at a recent press conference, highlighting the city’s proactive approach to security planning for the World Cup. Plans were initially put in place even before Vancouver was confirmed as a host city for seven games in the 2026 tournament. Following a tragic incident at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival in April, where 11 people lost their lives in a car attack, security measures were further enhanced to prioritize public safety during the event.
While specific figures for security costs have not been disclosed, Mayor Sim reassured the public that Vancouver is committed to making necessary investments to guarantee the safety of all residents and visitors during the World Cup.
Spencer Chandra Herbert, B.C.’s minister of tourism, arts, culture, and sport, announced that a comprehensive cost breakdown for hosting the World Cup will be released later this month. Previous estimates in 2024 projected expenses between $483 million and $581 million, covering various city and provincial services along with upgrades to B.C. Place stadium.
Despite the anticipated economic benefits of hosting the tournament, Vancouver Coun. Sean Orr raised valid concerns about potential cost overruns, security challenges, and the long-term impact on housing affordability. He questioned whether diverting resources towards the World Cup amid economic uncertainties is the most prudent decision at this time.
The availability of hotel accommodations in Vancouver has also been a subject of debate, with approximately 350,000 visitors expected to flock to the city for the World Cup. A recent report highlighted challenges in securing sufficient lodging, as the city experienced a reduction of 550 hotel rooms between 2020 and 2022 due to conversions of older establishments into housing for vulnerable populations.
Royce Chwin, CEO of Destination Vancouver, shared plans to mitigate the accommodation shortage by expanding the hotel pipeline to accommodate the influx of visitors during the tournament. Additionally, tourists may need to explore alternative options such as staying in surrounding areas like Nanaimo or the Fraser Valley.
To address the accommodation shortfall, some Vancouver residents may consider renting out their homes during the World Cup. Both the province and the city have regulations in place for short-term rentals, including licensing requirements for operators. Minister Chandra Herbert expressed optimism about the opportunity to welcome guests to B.C. and emphasized the collaborative efforts to ensure a seamless experience for all attendees.
As the FIFA World Cup approaches, Vancouver is gearing up to host a series of matches starting on June 13, 2026. With meticulous planning and strategic partnerships, the city aims to showcase its hospitality and vibrant culture to soccer enthusiasts from around the globe.
