The upcoming FIFA World Cup, the world’s largest international soccer tournament with games in Toronto and Vancouver, could give Canada an economic boost of up to $6.5 billion, according to a new report from BMO Economics.
Running from June 11 to July 19, the tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches across North America, with Toronto and Vancouver hosting games in Canada.
BMO Economics estimates the 2026 tournament could generate C$1.5–$6.5 billion in incremental quarterly GDP in Canada, including:
- C$1–$5 billion from tourism-related spending
- C$0.5–$1.5 billion from increased domestic consumption
This equates to roughly a 0.1 percentage point lift to quarterly annualized GDP growth, split between the second and third quarters of 2026.
“Mega sporting events of this scale don’t transform economies overnight, but they do create a meaningful surge in demand over a concentrated period,” said Douglas Porter, Chief Economist, BMO. “In Canada, tourism, accommodation, food services and local entertainment stand to benefit most – particularly in the host cities.”
BMO said tourism-related spending is expected to be the primary driver of economic activity, as international visitors increase demand for hotels, air travel, restaurants and bars. Early indicators showed a rise in accommodation bookings following the match draw, particularly around key fixtures in Toronto and Vancouver, though more recent data suggest demand has moderated.
Bars and restaurants are also expected to see a notable lift. During the 2022 World Cup, consumer spending at bars and restaurants in Canada rose by more than 10%, highlighting the potential upside for hospitality operators, it added.
The report said the impact will be most pronounced in Ontario and British Columbia, where growth could be two to three times the national average due to the concentration of matches in Toronto and Vancouver. Employment is also expected to see a modest, temporary boost – particularly in tourism-facing sectors.
“These gains are real, but they are temporary,” added Porter. “They reflect a surge in demand during the event window rather than a lasting shift in Canada’s economic fundamentals.”
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