The cost of staging matches at BC Place Stadium during the 2026 World Cup has increased significantly in recent years, from $260 million Canadian ($330 million U.S.) to an estimated range of $483 million to $581 million Canadian ($351 million to $422 million U.S.). This increase is due to FIFA’s decision to plan for seven matches instead of five at the stadium.
The updated cost estimation includes expenses for the city and province, as well as necessary upgrades to the stadium. These figures account for hosting, operating, and capital requirements identified during FIFA site visits, rising inflation assumptions, and additional provincial costs like public sector essential services. Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim believes that despite the increased costs and revenue, the long-term benefits of hosting the World Cup will more than compensate for any initial deficits.
The British Columbia government expects that the event will generate enough revenue to offset the net cost of $100 million to $145 million Canadian ($73 million to $105 million U.S.). Minister of Tourism Lana Popham anticipates that the World Cup will draw approximately 350,000 fans to the province and generate over $1 billion Canadian ($727 million U.S.) for the local tourism industry in the five years following the tournament. The government views this investment as beneficial for British Columbians due to the potential positive return on investment.
Among the estimated costs, $196 million Canadian ($142 million U.S.) has been allocated for upgrades to BC Place Stadium to meet FIFA’s requirements for hosting
